The past few years have been marked by immense challenges for South Africans, with a recessionary economy, rampant inflation, and an energy crisis making it increasingly difficult for individuals to make ends meet.
The recent decision by the Financial Action Task Force to place South Africa on its grey-list adds pressure to an already struggling economy, and it is likely to exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals and businesses alike. However, we want to assure you that Sanlam adheres to stringent due diligence and risk assessment requirements and has robust plans to mitigate the impact of the FATF’s Mutual Evaluation Report findings and the grey-listing of South Africa. We will keep you informed of any further developments as they arise.
Whatever lies ahead of us, the Sanlam Umbrella Solutions team remains committed to partnering with you to tackle the challenges we face, together. There are already a number of changes and initiatives to look forward to in the coming year as we continue to strengthen our position as the fastest growing retirement umbrella fund in the country…
Changes to the Board of Trustees
We’re excited to announce the appointment of two new members of the board. Yvette Harris has been appointed as a new Sanlam-appointed trustee to the Board of Trustees of the Sanlam Umbrella Fund and the Sanlam Unity Fund, effective from 1 February 2023. With over 35 years of experience in the financial services industry, Yvette has held various roles across different organisations. Her passion for member communication, combined with her financial management and planning expertise, has enabled her to play a pivotal role in developing impactful communication solutions.
Shamiega Manuels has been appointed as the new Head Fund Secretariat, effective from 1 January 2023.With over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, Shamiega has vast experience in the contractual and legal space, having amassed some of her experience at two of the top five insurance companies in South Africa. Her wealth of experience will be instrumental in enabling the Fund to maintain good governance.
We would like to wish Yvette and Shamiega well. We look forward to their contribution to the most admired umbrella fund in the industry. Click here to view Yvette and Shamiega’s profiles. Please join us in thanking Erina le Grange for her years of service in her role as Head: Fund Secretariat, and the significant contributions she made to the Sanlam Umbrella Fund.
Member Representative Trustee elections 2023
The Sanlam Umbrella Fund is in the process of preparing a shortlist of independent professional trustees for the next Trustee election that will take place during April and May 2023. Interested parties may submit a CV for consideration to the Deputy Principal Officer by 17 March 2023 via email: SUFPO@sanlam.co.za. Members of the Sanlam Umbrella Fund are entitled to elect independent, professional Member Representative Trustees that will make up 50% of the Board of Trustees. Access more information here.
2023 Sanlam Benchmark
We look froward to seeing you all at our annual Sanlam Benchmark Symposium taking place on 6 June 2023 at The Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg, and online. You may already have received a save the date about the event from your Client Relationship Manager. We will soon send calendar invitations to your mailbox. So, keep an eye out for that.
Nzwa Shoniwa