South African insurer Santam has announced the appointment of Nico Conradie as Chief Executive Officer of Santam Re, its reinsurance subsidiary specializing in non-life treaties. He is set to take up his position on March 1, 2026, according to a statement released on February 24, 2026.
Nico Conradie has over 30 years of experience in insurance and reinsurance on an international scale. He recently completed his term as CEO of Munich Re’s Africa branch. Within the German group, he also held the positions of executive director and CEO of life insurance. He also led Hannover Life Re Africa, thus consolidating his expertise in African markets.
Academically, Nico Conradie holds a Master of Science from North-West University and a Bachelor of Science with honors from the University of Stellenbosch.
A strategic appointment
Santam Group CEO Tavaziva Madzinga emphasized that this appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the company, as it is committed to implementing its “FutureFit 2030” strategy. He added that the new leader “brings considerable experience that will fully support our strategic ambitions. We are confident that he will contribute to strengthening Santam Re’s ability to provide high-performing reinsurance solutions, both in emerging and developed markets.”
The CEO also praised the role of Kush Padia, CFO of Santam Re, who was acting as interim head of the subsidiary during the recruitment process. Padia will officially resume his duties as CFO at the beginning of March.
With this appointment, Santam aims to strengthen the positioning of its reinsurance subsidiary and accelerate its development in high-potential markets, both in Africa and internationally.
