Robert Goff
This axiom by author and motivational speaker Simon Sinek best puts into context Sanlam’s approach to employee development and our recognition as one of the Top Employers on the African continent, says Robert Goff, chief executive of Human Resources at Sanlam Personal Finance.
In fact, the development of its people is not just a pivotal strategic enabler to help Sanlam achieve its vision and purpose; it is innate to Sanlam’s way of doing things.
“Our vision and purpose to lead the way for our clients by creating, protecting and managing their wealth in a manner that truly serves them, has always required a dynamic and forward-thinking approach to HR practices,” says Goff.
“We believe the fact that clients have been able to rely on Sanlam’s ability to serve them for almost a century is testimony to the fact that our HR practices have evolved dynamically and are truly part of our culture and our DNA.
“So, just as we aspire to be the best for our clients, we are equally committed and passionate about creating a challenging, stimulating work environment and development opportunities to allow our employees to grow and realise their own potential.”
Sanlam is a company built on respecting people for what they are worth and an appreciation for what they can become. Goff says this is why Sanlam gives each and every employee the opportunity to make the most of who they are and to be rewarded for what they’re worth.
“We inspire people to realise their worth. This is our commitment to employees and it is what makes us Wealthsmiths™.”
Employees should experience the organisation as a place where they can grow and where their careers can be developed. They must also know that at Sanlam diversity is valued and that high achievement is not only possible, but also evident.
“Because we believe people have the potential to improve and change over time, this growth mind-set underlies the type of environment we create in our company. Practically, it means that the way we manage employees’ careers and the challenges that we offer them must synchronise with a growth mind-set.”
The emphasis falls on development, progress, improvement and encouraging employees to achieve their personal growth goals. “Conversely, our internal culture challenges easily achievable goals, the limitations of natural ability and pure performance-based appraisals, among other things.”
Goff says Sanlam’s engagement with clients and employees confirms the need for a company (and a world) where people inspire one another to consider change and create a value-based culture of aspiration, diverse opportunities and forward journeys.
“At the same time, we need visionary leaders with deep insight to facilitate change and responsibly drive Sanlam’s conscious transformation strategies and programmes.”
Against this background the company is passionate about driving and instilling transformational leadership among its employees.
Goff says, in light of Sanlam’s culture of constant renewal, innovation, growth and development: “We are fanatical about attracting, developing and retaining talent, and nurturing and positioning high potential and talented employees.”
Sanlam’s value proposition of creating an environment with growth opportunities where employees can live their passion while also caring for extended communities and building sustainable legacies is supported by a range of interventions. These include coaching and mentorship programmes, resilience workshops and ensuring meaningful exposure to the latest, proven trends in innovation and creativity.
“Sanlam’s value proposition to our employees is indeed a manifestation of our value proposition to our clients. It epitomises what Wealthsmiths™ do and what we stand for: A desire to make a positive difference in people’s lives; a culture rooted in sincerity, respect and care for each other; a focus on doing things right and doing them together; and being united in doing good.”
Goff says the fact that Sanlam employees positively experience this value proposition continues to ensure Sanlam’s success as an employer and as a wealth creator and protector.
“It can indeed be said that our clients love us, because our employees loved us first.”