Santam to reward SA's top players in risk management

Santam is to reward the visionary yet 'unsung heroes' of the risk management industry who use the discipline to enhance company viability and bottom line targets.

In addition to the top honour of being recognised by peers, Santam's overall Risk Manager of 2007 will receive R40 000.

Four additional categories being sponsored this year include Best Small Business Initiative related to Risk Management, Best Local Government Risk Management Initiative and the Most Effective Company Risk Management Programme.

Mpumi Tyikwe, Santams Executive Head of Corporate and Specialist Distribution says, "Over the past few years we have seen a considerable improvement in the usage of risk management principles in listed companies. However, when it comes to unlisted companies, there remains a vast implementation gap".

To encourage growth within this sector, Santam will also award R10 000 to the winning SMME.

Tyikwe also mentions that the development and management of human and financial risks is also top of the agenda within the local government structures. In an effort to support and encourage continued development, a progressive municipality will receive R20 000 in cash to train staff in risk management and finance.

"We believe by recognising excellence in these two important sectors, SMMEs and local government, we will encourage others to lift their game."

Tyikwe adds that the 'Most Effective Company Risk Management Programme' category will honour a company that has over a period of time used risk management to improve the overall performance of the organisation.

"We believe good risk management can and should be measured and deserve to be rewarded. Santam, in partnership with the Institute of Risk Management South Africa (IRMSA) is delighted to be involved in giving recognition to this important discipline.

"Not only are we rewarding professional risk managers, but we are also giving consumers more power when it comes to premiums by using shared risk management as a way of allowing them to get more out of insurance.

"By enabling consumers to take positive actions to minimise risk we aim to make peoples lives safer and nicer", Tyikwe adds.

The Santam Risk Management Awards are open to any individual and institution participating in the discipline of Risk Management, based in and working primarily within the borders of South Africa.

The criteria include outstanding achievement in any discipline of Risk Management for the period from June 2006 to June 2007, development of new or innovative concepts to enhance or promote the discipline, outstanding creativity and expertise in managing risk, as well as an ongoing contribution to the industry, through speaking engagements, education initiatives or any other related contributions.

The award will be announced at the IRMSA annual conference on November 7, but finalists will be advised a week in advance. Please refer to the IRMSA website for more details about sending nominations in respect of institutions and entry forms www.irmsa.org.za

All information requested on the nomination form must be completed and attached to the submission, including an electronic photograph of the nominee and a curriculum vitae.

The deadline date for submissions is close of business on September 21.