Phoenix rises… to the challenge

Phoenix Risk Solutions (PRS), insurance broker to AfriSam Contractors, insured the loads – bags of AfriSam cement – that were carried by the trailers during Truck Test 2015. CLAIRE RENCKEN speaks to PRS director, Steve van Eyslend, about the company and its involvement in the event.

Van Eyslend explains: “We offered to insure the loads for the duration of Truck Test 2015. Together with our insurer partner, One Insurance, we were able to sponsor the total cost of this insurance. PRS has designed several custom-made transport insurance solutions across various industry segments. We consider our involvement in Truck Test to be very valuable to our future strategy and focus.”

He goes on to say: “The test provided us with the opportunity to network with the wider transport industry, while, at the same time, gaining meaningful insights regarding worthwhile product information. PRS will definitely be at the FOCUS conference to continue this networking process, and, of course, to hear the results of the test.”

PRS was established in 2003. Today, it manages in excess of R400 million in premiums annually, and transacts with all major insurance companies and underwriting managers. It is authorised to conduct all aspects of short-term insurance. This includes a full insurance broking and risk management service in respect of all corporate, commercial and domestic insurance, as well as self-funding alternatives.

“Choosing an insurance company should be a positive experience, not a grudge purchase, based on scare tactics and ‘what if’ scenarios,” says Van Eyslend. “Our role as a broker is to assist companies to proactively take responsibility for their assets as part of an overall financial management plan.”

With more than 100 years of combined experience in the insurance industry, the Phoenix team provides its clients with competitive insurance or self-funding solutions, and can design an insurance programme to suit a company’s specific needs.

The company’s vision of complete customer focus remains of paramount importance. PRS is totally independent and is 80 percent management owned. Its success is determined by its ability to satisfy its clients’ needs.

PRS is an authorised financial services provider and a member of the South African Financial Intermediaries Association (FIA). Furthermore, the company is committed to developing people from disadvantaged backgrounds, while not compromising its client service. PRS carries a level-three BEE verification.

“We have a special affinity for, and in-depth understanding of, the small business operator, who does not necessarily have a culture of insuring against unforeseen risks. At the same time, we are able to guide corporate entities towards cost-effective risk transfer or self-funding alternatives,” concludes Van Eyslend.