FAnews in conversation with Gerhard Genis, Retiree Repurposing Programme (RRP)

As South Africa’s insurance industry continues to grapple with a shortage of specialised skills, initiatives like the Retiree Repurposing Programme (RRP) are stepping in to make a lasting impact.

Launched by the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) in collaboration with the Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA), Financial Intermediaries Association (FIA), and the Insurance Institute of South Africa (IISA), this fully funded mentorship programme brings together industry veterans and emerging professionals to drive knowledge transfer, leadership development, and long-term growth across the non-life insurance sector.

“This is about more than just skills transfer,” says Gerhard Genis, independent professional and Programme Lead of the RRP. “We’re harvesting decades of expertise and ploughing it back into the industry, helping to shape the next generation of leaders.” 

What the programme offers

The programme has steadily evolved from its initial manual pilot phase into a robust, tech-supported ecosystem that fosters real connection. And the results speak for themselves - with hundreds of mentorship sessions logged, and strong feedback from both mentees and mentors alike. “Many mentors told me they’ve learned more through this process than they ever expected. The feedback we receive shows how much both mentors and mentees gain from this experience,” Genis said. “That’s the kind of transformation we’re after.” 

According to SAIA, the programme is designed to foster professional development through:

• Technical skills transfer:Sharing industry knowledge and best practices (i.e., hands-on approach for a deeper understanding on technical aspects).
• Leadership development:Equipping mentees with essential leadership capabilities (i.e., leadership and management experts procured in addition to the mentor’s guidance on technical matters).
• Soft skills enhancement:Supporting holistic professional growth (i.e., an online system procured offering over 100 soft skills to mentees in addition to the above mentioned).

The initiative is fully funded by INSETA, ensuring that there are no costs to participating companies or individuals.

Who can apply?

Mentor applicants (retirees):

• Semi-retired or retired within the last three years;
• Extensive technical expertise in any field of insurance or reinsurance;
• Proven technical and leadership experience; and
• Availability to meet (in person or virtually) at least twice per month with their assigned mentee. 

Mentee applicants (junior to middle managers):

• A minimum of five years' experience in the non-life insurance industry;
• Currently employed at a junior or middle management level;
• Affiliation with a SAIA, FIA, or SAUMA member company; and
• Strong commitment to professional growth and leadership development 

Applications for the 2025/2026 intake remain open for a limited time. 

Ready to apply?

If you're eligible and ready to grow or give back to the industry, we encourage you to be part of this impactful initiative.

Register here - https://tinyurl.com/345m9xpd