Santam Group, Africa’s largest non-life insurance company, has appointed Nigel Tatlock as head of property at its recently launched subsidiary Santam Syndicate 1918.
The appointment is in line with the group’s long-term growth plans as it continues to develop Lloyd’s products following the acquisition of underwriting license in late 2025 and launch on January 1, 2026.
In his new role, Tatlock will lead the development of a “market-leading” real estate underwriting team to build a global real estate directory that includes U.S. and international markets on an open market and binder distribution basis.
He has more than 40 years of industry experience, including more than 15 years with Liberty Specialty Markets, most recently as the company’s global head of real estate.
In the past, Tatlock also served as head of D&F property at XL Re London and senior underwriter at Wren Syndicates (now Brit).
Recent appointments within the property division include Briyangha (Brie) Suthagaran, previously of Atrium and Ascot, and Sam Tierney, previously of Arcadian and Hiscox. Further hiring is expected in the coming months as the syndicate continues to deepen its underwriting capabilities.
Simon Clapham, Chief Underwriting Officer (CUO) and active underwriter at Syndicate, commented: “The launch of Santam Syndicate 1918 has been enthusiastically received. So has our recruitment efforts.
“Nigel is widely respected for his wealth of experience and insights and his arrival will be a significant boost as we continue to build a strong and credible presence in the London market, driving sustainable growth for all stakeholders.”
Tatlock added: “It is an exciting time to join Santam Syndicate 1918. I look forward to fueling Syndicate’s strategic vision and working closely with our international brokerage partners and clients to build a high-quality, globally relevant real estate portfolio supported by a talented underwriting team.”
