IISA Profile: Collin Molepe, IISA Deputy President/Chairperson

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Collin Molepe

Did you always want to be in the insurance industry?

You may be surprised to hear that I knew very little about the insurance industry and didn't have any particular interest in it. But I guess this was where I was destined to be. I started my career in the banking sector, working as a clerk. The more I spoke with some clients in insurance, the more fascinated and interested I became in the sector. I was curious to understand their business and how it worked - this ultimately led me to join an insurer.

So how did your insurance career start

I started my insurance journey in medical insurance with Discovery Health; I spent seven years with them. As I got more entrenched in the business and learnt about the industry, my interest grew, and growth accelerated. Within a few years, I worked my way up to a Divisional Manager level within the Health business. I then moved to Absa Insurance which was another learning experience. Here, I leveraged my operational insights, strategic competencies, and leadership experience to support business profitability through an effective and efficient Claims Cost Control strategy. Interestingly, many experiences at Absa equipped me with the necessary skills for my future roles at Zurich, now Bryte Insurance.

What are some of the aspirations that you still have?

Professionally, I'd say one of my greatest aspirations centres around youth development and the empowerment of black-owned SMEs, specifically those looking to establish themselves within the insurance industry. I see myself working with SMEs through their Board structures as a non-executive director or any other role that enables me to share my experiences with them to allow their growth. I believe that my experiences and the insights I have obtained over the years can add value in also assisting small businesses to strengthen their governance posture, thus making them more resilient. As for youth development, we have so much talent for all they need is their potential to be unlocked.

Personally, I aspire to make it to the Abbot Marathon Hall of Fame, adding to the wonderful list of South Africans who have already been honoured. To achieve this, I need to complete the big six global marathons. I have completed four, and I hope to complete two more in the future.

Can you tell us about some of your other hobbies?

I loved playing soccer in my earlier years. My commitment and passion landed me the role of Chairman of the Mapetla Football Club in Soweto, Gauteng. While my free time is limited, I remain involved with the team, following their participation in tournaments.

Any surprising fact that your colleagues don't know about you?

Cooking is another passion I have invested a bit more time into since last year. My friends and family tell me I am a great cook. At the risk of bragging, I think my culinary skills are slowly elevating me to the level of an amateur chef. So, to the very talented Masterchef, Top Chef, My Kitchen Rules, etc., participants watch out for some tough competition .