Managing with the spirit of Ubuntu at SanlamAllianz Namibia

Jade Higgins has been appointed development manager in the affluent market department at SanlamAllianz Namibia, bringing a people-focused leadership style and more than eight years of experience in the financial services industry.

In his new role, Higgins will lead strategic development initiatives, support team performance and drive growth across portfolios and projects. “My focus is on aligning operational execution with broader organisational goals,” he said, “while empowering teams to deliver at their best.”

He began his career at Bayport Financial Services in South Africa as a garnish order agent, later moving to Instant Life as a verification agent and customer services agent.

His drive for excellence led him to ABSA Instant Life, where he took on the role of senior retention specialist.

“Being part of ABSA Instant Life’s pilot project for the company’s first health tracker really shaped the way I think,” he says. “It pushed me to problem-solve creatively and adapt quickly in a changing environment.”

New horizons

In 2020, shortly after the onset of Covid-19, Higgins relocated to Namibia and stepped into the role of financial advisor.

Working in a new country challenged him both professionally and personally. “I had to think differently, connect authentically and build a client base through trust and word of mouth,” he reflects. “That experience changed the way I approach people and leadership.”

Receiving the call to join SanlamAllianz Namibia was a proud moment. “I was extremely excited,” Higgins shared. “It’s an honour to contribute to an organisation with such a strong reputation and to work in a space where meaningful impact truly matters.”

Opportunities and collaboration

Looking ahead, Higgins sees innovation as a key driver of growth. “There's a huge opportunity in using technology and data to streamline processes and improve customer experience,” he said.

“But it starts with asking the right questions and keeping people at the centre of every decision.”

Guided by values of integrity, consistency, collaboration and accountability, Higgins believes in purpose-driven work.

“I live by the principle of Ubuntu – I am because you are," he said.

Outside of work, few know that he once performed on stage and even travelled to London to perform live.

As he steps into this role, Higgins is clear about his motivation: “If what you do doesn’t help grow or make a difference in someone else’s life, then you shouldn’t be doing it.”