The Board of SanlamAllianz, a Pan-African non-banking financial services company formed jointly by Sanlam and Allianz, has appointed Hennie Nel as its next Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective September 1st 2026, as Heinie Werth retires at the end of 2026.
Werth retires following a distinguished 28-year career with the Sanlam group, including serving as CEO of SanlamAllianz since its inception in September 2023. He will remain with the business until December 31st, 2026, to ensure a seamless leadership transition.
Chris Townsend, Chairman of the SanlamAllianz Board, commented, “Over the years, Mr. Werth gained deep knowledge of the African continent, shaped through years of travelling across different markets and engaging closely with partners, regulators and other stakeholders.
“His contributions have laid a strong foundation for SanlamAllianz, inspired teams and helped advance generations towards greater financial confidence, security and prosperity.”
Currently, Nel serves as the Executive Head: Corporate Finance at Sanlam Group, and brings extensive experience in strategy, corporate transactions, and African financial services markets.
He has over 25 years of industry experience and joined the group in 2012 as Chief Financial Officer of Santam. In 2023, Nel moved to Sanlam Group to take up his current role, where he has led and overseen several significant strategic transactions, including TymeBank, GoTyme, Ninety One, MultiChoice Group, and Shriram.
During his tenure at Santam, he played a key role in Santam’s acquisition of economic interests in Sanlam General Insurance businesses outside South Africa.
Nel was also involved in Sanlam Group’s acquisition of a 30% stake in Saham Finances Group, including Santam’s direct investment in Saham Finances and the subsequent joint venture between Sanlam Group and Allianz SE.
In the past, he has also served as a Director at a global network of firms providing audit, consulting and advisory services, PwC, for nearly 12 years.
Townsend added, “We would like to extend our best wishes and sincere appreciation to Heinie for his significant contribution, and congratulate Hennie on his appointment.”
