Helena Conradie to step down from her role as CEO of Satrix

Helena Conradie is to step down from her role as CEO of Satrix later this year, she said in a letter to the media today.

“It was a bittersweet decision…I’m extremely passionate about the business, I love the people and I know how privileged I’ve been to play a role in a business and a brand that drives financial inclusion. But after 20 years at Sanlam Investments and Satrix and with the business in such a strong position as South Africa’s index leader, I feel it is time to hand over the baton.”

Conradie says that her passion for democratising investments will remain, but she’ll be taking some time out before deciding what the future holds.

“I will stay on the Satrix Board and will continue to work in the greater industry through my participation on the Women-in-ETF Board and other industry committees.”

The Sanlam business will run a process to appoint a new CEO for Satrix in due course. In the interim, Reece Briesies will be responsible for overseeing the business until a permanent successor is appointed.

“Reece is currently the Chief Financial & Operations Officer for Sanlam Investments and has been with the business for well over a decade. He has held various senior positions, including chief operating officer Sanlam Wealth in the UK and head of corporate and commercial finance in the UK. Over the next few months I will be working closely with Reece to ensure a seamless and well-structured handover.”

Conradie adds that the existing management team remains in good hands, with Kingsley Williams leading the investment team as Chief Investment Officer.