Paving the way for success at Old Mutual Namibia

Tassius Chigariro couldn't contain his smile when he was asked to reflect on the moment he was named chief executive officer (CEO) for Old Mutual Namibia.

"What brought me to Namibia? The quick response is that when my superiors asked, I answered yes without thinking twice," he said.

The chance to make a difference in Namibia touched him deeply. He understood the significant influence his background and leadership style could have on business operations.

Chigariro's leadership journey had its fair share of twists and turns.

Reflecting on his early days, he said: "I had my first opportunity to lead a large team when I was only 29 years old, and it did not take very long for me to realise I was very bad at it."

It was a humbling experience that taught him a valuable lesson: being intelligent doesn't automatically make one a successful leader.



Continuous learning

Over the years, he has embraced personal growth, honing his leadership style and discovering that the true mark of a great leader lies in empowering others.

In the fast-paced world of finance, Chigariro acknowledged the challenges of staying up-to-date with industry trends.

"Nobody can really say they keep up with this fast-moving world," he said. To remain ahead of the curve, he has cultivated the habit of continuous learning. "I thrive on frequently learning something new," he said.

Old Mutual Namibia's strategy echoes his mind-set – always evolving and adapting, as yesterday's success cannot guarantee tomorrow's triumphs.



Social responsibilities

Chigariro's passion for making a difference extends beyond the boardroom.

Old Mutual Namibia, under his guidance, became a driving force for economic development and growth.

"Old Mutual is a business whose strength lies within its communities," he said.

The company's commitment to social causes, such as poverty alleviation, climate change, financial inclusion and education, is channelled through the Old Mutual Foundation. This is done through initiatives like the Old Mutual Women's Summit, the Namibian Scholars' Investment Challenge and the Disaster Relief Fund.

Addressing the financial services industry's challenges, Chigariro highlighted the impact of Covid-19.

"We were still there to deliver the promise we made to customers years and decades before: to be a certain friend in the most uncertain times," he said.

Old Mutual Namibia's dedication to reducing unemployment and empowering entrepreneurs was demonstrated through the Old Mutual Sustainable, Economic, and Empowerment Drive (OM SEED). By providing skills training and capital to youth and women entrepreneurs, they nurtured economic resilience and empowerment across the nation.

Maintaining a customer-centric approach is at the core of Chigariro's leadership strategy.



Taking care of customers and staff

"That's an easy priority," he said. "Where there are no customers, you will not find any shareholders or employees."

He understands the importance of valuing employees and recognises their role as the driving force behind exceptional customer service.

A balance between customers, employees and shareholders are at the centre of Old Mutual Namibia's success.

When asked about advice for aspiring individuals in the financial services industry, Chigariro said: "Financial well-being is the biggest catalyst to a successful life for any human being." He highlighted the crucial role financial professionals play in shaping lives and encouraged young minds to embark on this rewarding career path.

"We all have 24 hours, and within them, we have to manage that scarce resource in order to be successful."

He enjoys spending time with family, reading, travelling and playing golf in his leisure moments.

To avoid burnout and to remain focused, Chigariro acknowledges the challenges of the digital age.

"Long ago, once you knocked off and were at home, work could not find you," he said. However, responsible organisations like Old Mutual Namibia take proactive measures to support employees' mental health, recognising the toll that relentless connectivity can take.

Chigariro said his goals for Old Mutual Namibia shine brightly.

"We aim to remain the top-ranked service provider and a 'one-stop shop' for our customers," he said.

He added that the company's ongoing commitment to innovation was exemplified through digital advancements like the MyOldMutual App and WhatsApp services, which bring convenience and accessibility to customers' fingertips.