Au revoir mon ami

By Carel Nolte

I love learning new things. And working with and for smart people who challenge me and help me to grow. My skillset is best used in start-ups or where there are challenges – maintaining the status quo is not my game! And so I have loved being the founding chairman and one of the shareholders of the Ami UMA for the past two years or so. However, I also love knowing when it is the right time to move on.

Last week I concluded the sale of my interest in Ami to the other existing shareholders.

The decision was a tough one – not only do I think that the Ami team has some of the most exceptional insurance practitioners and wonderful humans in it, but the hard work for laying a foundation has also been done. Ami is poised for ongoing success. However, I am confident that the decision is the right one as it allows me to focus on the immense other opportunities I am lucky enough to be involved in – especially at EasyEquities, which celebrates 10 years in October. Approaching R60 billion in assets, more than 1 million active clients and growth in our insurance and institutional business, now is the time to focus and deliver even more to the Easy community.

Thank you Christelle for inviting me to be your co-founding partner and for all the experiences we shared. I wish you the very best and may all your many and big dreams be fully realised.

Thank you Kurt, Zaida and your teams for teaching me a lot – and reinforcing my belief that culture really is just about people and the biggest differentiator any business has.

A big thank you also to Antoinette and the Lombard team (Ami’s risk carriers) – an exceptional business with heart, smarts, integrity and one that will continue its deserved success locally and internationally.

The full statement from Ami is below:

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Dear Ami Friends,

A Heartfelt Thank You and Au Revoir to Carel Nolte

Carel Nolte, our current Chairman and co-founding partner in Ami Underwriting Managers, has decided to step down from his roles to focus on other business interests.

This decision comes with mutual respect and warmth, as Carel has been an integral part of our journey from the very beginning. Carel’s contributions, from shaping our strategy to building a solid foundation, have been instrumental in driving our vision forward.

His motto, “investing in people,” has been evident in every aspect of his work, leaving a lasting impact on all of us. Ami has grown into an established and thriving UMA in the South African market, thanks in large part to Carel’s vision and dedication.

Says Carel: “I am happy to have been part of a business that aligns so closely with my personal values. Building brands by investing in people and communities, making a difference while having fun – that’s always been my goal. I am proud of what we have achieved together, and I am confident that the team will continue to reach new heights.”

We are also pleased to share that Carel will remain a key stakeholder in Ami through his business, CN&CO, which fulfils Ami’s marketing functions as well as those of Lombard, our risk carrier. This continued partnership ensures that our collaboration and friendship will carry on as we move forward.

Ami CEO, Christelle Colman, also wishes to convey her heartfelt thanks: “Carel, your unwavering support and belief in our vision have been the cornerstone of our success. We are immensely grateful for your guidance and friendship. While we will miss your presence in your current role, we are excited for your future endeavours and the positive impact you will continue to make.”