Basson van Rooyen leads strategy at Sanlam Investments Namibia
Moving from financial-services assurance to leading investment strategy requires more than an understanding of numbers; it demands sound judgement, risk awareness and the ability to guide teams through uncertainty.
For Basson van Rooyen, chief investment officer (CIO) at Sanlam Investments Namibia, this progression has been shaped by years of experience across financial reporting, investment analysis and portfolio management.
Van Rooyen's professional journey began at PwC, where he gained experience in financial-services assurance, focusing on financial reporting, internal controls, governance and regulated businesses.
“That period taught me to interrogate the numbers, understand the systems behind them and remain attentive to risk, even when the immediate picture appears positive,” he told Careers.
In 2012, he joined Sanlam Investments, marking a turning point in his career. He progressed from investment analysis to portfolio management before being appointed CIO in April 2024.
His appointment followed more than a decade of experience at Sanlam Investments, building expertise in investment analysis, portfolio management and risk assessment.
In his current role, he oversees investment strategy, portfolio performance, risk management and governance, ensuring that investment portfolios meet clients’ objectives and regulatory requirements.
“At its heart, the role is about creating an environment in which we match the clients’ needs to what is available in the investment universe and make their investment journey a success,” he said.
A chartered accountant and CFA charterholder, Van Rooyen combines financial discipline, valuation expertise and investment judgement. His experience spans multi-asset portfolios, listed and unlisted investments, property, fixed income and client-mandated businesses.
Beyond technical expertise, he believes effective leadership requires creating an environment where professionals can challenge assumptions, share different perspectives and take responsibility for their decisions.
“I believe people should have clear accountability, the freedom to apply their expertise and the confidence to subject significant decisions to robust debate,” he said.
Trust is key
As Namibia’s investment landscape evolves, Van Rooyen sees opportunities to connect the country’s savings with productive local projects while strengthening governance and developing investment solutions that meet changing client needs.
He also believes investment decisions carry responsibilities beyond market performance, particularly when managing savings intended to support people’s retirement and financial security.
“We are entrusted with savings that represent people’s sweat and tears, needed future income and financial security. Managing that capital responsibly is both a privilege and a significant responsibility,” he said.
Looking ahead, he identifies Namibia’s offshore oil prospects, supporting infrastructure and local supply chains as potential drivers of investment and economic growth. However, he cautions that agricultural pressures, climate risks and uncertainty reinforce the importance of diversification and careful risk management.
Outside the investment industry, Van Rooyen has been involved in Round Table for approximately 12 years and served as treasurer of Round Table Southern Africa during the 2025/26 year.
