Chief Operating Officer
Job Description
Established in 1936, The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (RF) Proprietary Limited (FEM) is a mutual insurer operating under license from the Compensation Commissioner and our business is governed by the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act of 1993. Our operations are restricted to the Building and Construction Industry under the 0500 subclasses of the Department of Employment and Labour's classification of industries. FEM is registered as a non-life insurer in terms of the Insurance Act 18 of 2017.
Reporting to the CEO, The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a senior executive responsible for driving operational excellence, organisational efficiency, and the effective execution of the company's strategy. This role translates corporate objectives into practical operational plans by designing, strengthening, and overseeing the systems, processes, and functional structures that support sustainable business performance. In addition, the COO ensures seamless information flow and effective management reporting across the organisation, enabling data driven decision making and accountability. In addition, the role identifies and drives opportunities for operational improvement, innovation, and business growth.
A strong people leader, the COO will build high performing teams, foster a positive culture, and support leadership development and succession planning.
A key component of the role includes overseeing operational budgets, underwriting results, financial analysis, and system reconciliations, while strengthening key relationships with regulators, healthcare partners, the Compensation Fund, and FEM policyholders.
Essential requirements include one of the following qualifications: Chartered Accountant CA(SA), FASSA (Fellow of the Actuarial Society of South Africa) or an equivalent actuarial designation, or a postgraduate degree in Business Administration (MBA/MBL) combined with a bachelor's degree in accounting. Candidates must have a minimum of 12 years' experience in senior operational, executive, and leadership roles. A strong background in insurance operations, as well as demonstrated expertise in regulatory compliance and risk management, is also mandatory.
Success in this position requires strong leadership, strategic and critical thinking, exceptional communication capabilities, and deep industry knowledge to guide teams, streamline operations, and ensure alignment between day to day performance and long term organisational goals.
In exchange for the candidate's successful services, FEM offers a competitive total cost to company remuneration package.
Applicants must submit a detailed CVby the close of business on 20 March 2026.
FEM promotes the principles of Employment Equity. The appointment of this candidate is at FEM's sole discretion.