Santam Syndicate 1918 (“the Syndicate”), the new venture by Africa’s largest non-life insurer, Santam Group (“Santam”), has been granted Lloyd’s final permission to underwrite for business incepting from 1 January 2026.
The Syndicate will bring Santam’s trusted expertise and unique culture to the global specialty insurance market with both a Southern African and growing international focus. With planned Gross Written Premium for 2026 projected to be in excess of £300 million, the Syndicate is positioned to accelerate Santam’s international growth ambitions and diversification strategy, while bringing an accretive new offering to Lloyd’s.
Santam has appointed an experienced executive team to ensure the Syndicate is fully prepared to commence business in the new year: Rob Vetch, a professional with 30 years’ experience in the global (re)insurance market is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer. Simon Clapham, with over 45 years of market experience, is Chief Underwriting Officer and Active Underwriter. Richard Weston, who has 25 years of experience in the London market most recently at Brit, is the Chief Actuary and Chief Risk Officer. Carla Jordan, who has 25 years’ experience in reinsurance and insurance, is the Chief Engagement and Portfolio Officer. Further senior underwriting appointments will be announced imminently.
The initial underwriting focus will include the following classes of business:
• Property – International and North America Open Market and Binders
• Marine
• Energy
• Political Violence and Terrorism
• Financial Institutions
• Professional Indemnity
• Cyber
Tavaziva Madzinga, the Santam Group CEO, has welcomed Lloyd’s final approval.
“International growth and diversification is a key component of our FutureFit2030 strategy. Launching a Lloyd’s syndicate is the most efficient and scalable platform to pursue this business goal. The Syndicate is a major step in realising our international ambitions and transforming the Santam Group. We are excited to receive permission to underwrite and look forward to opening for business on 1 January 2026,” said Madzinga.
Rob Vetch commented: “Beginning a business at Lloyd’s for Santam, South Africa’s leading insurer with more than 100 years of history across the group, is incredibly exciting. Our team is looking forward to being fully live from 1/1, collaborating closely with our international distribution brokers, creating new synergies with clients, bringing new business to London and adding value to all parts of the chain.”
Lorraine Harfitt, CEO of Asta said: “Seeing such a well-regarded and predominant insurer like Santam bringing its offerings to the London insurance market is very exciting. Asta is delighted to have the opportunity to manage Santam Syndicate 1918 and work closely with Rob and his team on the Syndicate’s launch”.