The view from the top

Refilwe Moletsane is the Deputy Executive Officer of SAIA and an inspiring example of a woman who rose from humble beginnings to leave her mark on the insurance industry. FAnews spoke to Refilwe to discover her recipe for success.

Born in 1970 in small location called Diepkloof in Soweto, Refilwe faced many challenges before she successfully matriculated in 1989. She went on to complete her graduate studies at the University of Bophuthatswana, now the University of the North West, from which she graduated in 1992 with a Bachelor of Jurisprudence.

Refilwe also successfully completed a Management Advancement Programme at Wits Business School in 1997 and seven years later graduated with a distinction from the Leadership Advancement programme offered by UCT Graduate School Business.

A career in insurance

With this extensive educational background, Refilwe was ready to tackle the business world and her career in insurance started at Mutual & Federal in August 1993, where she was appointed as an underwriter.

In 1994 Refilwe joined the Hollard Insurance Company. When Hollard created its first black economic empowerment company, Refilwe was one of the two staff employed. She also worked in various capacities, including portfolio management of Eskom and Transnet Homeowners books of business. In 2001, Refilwe joined the Hollard Bank and Motor Division as Accounts Manager. Before long she was appointed as a Project Manager in the Managing Directors office.
All this experience culminated in Refilwe being approached by an agency for the position of Deputy Executive Officer at SAIA.

At the top

"I knew about SAIA when I was still at Hollard and never thought that I would be afforded an opportunity to be part of this dynamic team," says Refilwe. "I did believe, though, that I had what it takes to be successful because of my in-depth knowledge of the short-term industry, coupled with my leadership attributes."

Refilwe describes her leadership style as 'definitely consultative'. "I am a firm believer that a true leader is one who, prior to taking a journey, makes certain that she is of the same mind with her followers, creating 'consensus ad idem' – a meeting of the minds on issues. My success has to a large extent been influenced by this leadership attribute."

Motivated and inspired

She finds inspiration and renewed motivation in her own experience. "Every time I reflect on my humble beginnings and also on what I have achieved, I am motivated to keep growing and achieving. The thought that keeps me going is that 'you are what you choose to become'."

And in her professional capacity, Refilwe has chosen some tough goals for herself. "One of the 'big ticket items' I have set for myself is to ensure that SAIA plays an integral part in shaping any regulation or legislation which is consumer centric. There is a growing trend towards consumer protection being driven at sectorial level and my aim is to ensure that SAIA takes the lead."

Leaving a legacy

But Refilwe also plans to leave her mark on the industry. "This portfolio has enabled me to interact with issues at strategic level and with particular reference to legislation and regulation, I am currently involved in issues that will seek to review our industry practices. My wish is deliver to on all issues which will be in the interest of my members and also most importantly of the end user of our products and services."

"The short-term insurance industry is very dynamic industry. What I enjoy most is about my portfolio is my bird's view of all the issues and also being part of the voice of reason on behalf of the industry. What I find quite challenging is the lack of effective participation by the industry on issues which require industry focus."

Most significant personal achievement

But Refilwe is not only a successful businesswoman. "I am married to Kagiso Moletsane and we have been blessed with two beautiful children Sibongile (8) and Mokhele (3). This is my most significant personal achievement - my children and my husband. "When I am home I love spending time in my kitchen where I love exploring good flavours - this includes my best curry dishes. I also love gardening, reading and listening to music."

As Refilwe honours her life philosophy 'To be true to myself and to treat others the way that I would like to be treated', consumers and the players in the industry can expect a fair and dynamic driving force at SAIA to keep the industry's interests close to her heart.