Ntombi Mothibeli, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Medshield Medical Scheme, loves life in her position, ensuring that the Scheme’s members receive their benefits
Being a medical scheme’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is not for the faint-hearted. As the person responsible for managing the Scheme’s finances, it is crucial to control the funds, as timely pay-outs are paramount, and any delays can have adverse effects. In addition, you also have to consider the wellbeing of all the Scheme’s members. Taking on that responsibility takes a remarkable person.
Ntombi Mothibeli qualified as a Chartered Accountant (SA) in 2007 after completing her training with Ernst & Young. She then joined Alexander Forbes and held various positions at organisations in the financial services sector, e.g. pension funds, short-term and long-term insurance, investments, financial research and the medical aid/healthcare sector. She has held the strategic position of CFO since 2014 for various organisations.
Currently the CFO of Medshield Medical Scheme, Ntombi’s key responsibilities include managing the Scheme’s finances within the prescribed Scheme policies, procedures and governance, and compliance and regulations. ”As part of my role, I am responsible for completing the annual budget, monitoring monthly actual spend, and ensuring that the Scheme’s financial and non-financial activities are audited annually. With 16 years of wealth knowledge and experience in financial services, including over 10 years in senior management and executive positions, I am particularly well-suited to this role,” she reveals.
In terms of what makes Medshield Medical Scheme the entity it is today, Ntombi believes that a critical factor in this regard is their ability to ensure that all stakeholders are treated with respect and provided with the high-quality care they deserve. To consistently deliver on this promise, Medshield implemented a cash flow model to understand the cash cycle of the Scheme. Based on the model, they know their short-term cash commitments and ensure they have the requisite cash on hand to meet obligations as they fall due.
”Various factors drive the Scheme, but managing the funding of members’ healthcare and ensuring they have continuous access to care is our top priority. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, the Scheme managed to weather the storm and maintain a good solvency ratio, which is well above the statutory requirements,” she explains.
While it is evident that Ntombi has a lot of responsibilities, she is a leader and needs to ensure everything runs smoothly, regardless of the obstacles she encounters.
Leading by Example
As a leader, Ntombi describes herself as someone who leads by example and is not afraid to knuckle down when the pressure mounts. Essentially, she is someone you want in your corner.
”I lead by example, and outcomes and deliverables take priority. I am hands-on and willing to go all in when the Scheme requires it. I believe it is important to know when the time is right to step away and allow each individual in my team to grow and showcase their ability. However, if a deadline is missed, then I am willing to delve into the details of the problem and identify and solve the root cause of the issue,” she explains.
As previously mentioned, this position comes with its challenges, one of which is a high-stress level. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), ‘stress can be defined as a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. Stress is a natural human response that prompts us to address challenges and threats in our lives.’
Every executive has different methods and solutions when dealing with stress, but for Ntombi, her family keeps her going. ”My kids are my best escape from work stress. I have four kids between the ages of 10 and 19, and there is never a dull moment in my house and life,” she avers smilingly.
Challenges and difficult situations remain the most significant contributing factors to stress in the workplace, and there is no easy solution to overcoming workplace issues; each individual has to handle them in their way. For Ntombi, analysing the situation while applying the rules and regulations is crucial. ”I address challenging situations by first understanding the context, then evaluating the impact, consequence or magnitude, before researching the solution, then ultimately making a decision”, Ntombi explains.
”Implementing IFRS17 (International Financial Reporting Standard 17) at Medshield was challenging, albeit rewarding. Through thorough consultation with the Principal Officer and my Executive colleagues, we enhanced our understanding of the IFRS17, their combined responsibilities in terms of the decision-making process and the implications on the business.”
With Medshield well into its sixth decade of existence, the Scheme’s footprint continues to grow while ensuring it continually improves the lives of all employees and members. In 2024, Medshield’s strategy is to utilise their reserves to minimise their contribution increases so that it remains affordable to their current and potential members whilst guarding the financial sustainability of the Scheme.
There is much to be excited about in the future, and Ntombi is particularly excited about continuing her journey with the Scheme.
”What excites me the most about Medshield is that members are not just policyholders. The Scheme strives to provide exceptional service and care to its members whenever they may need it. As the sixth largest open medical aid scheme in South Africa, we are growing by the day. I am excited to be part of the Medshield Medical Scheme journey, and I am eager to contribute to elevating the Scheme to new heights,” she concludes.
And we look forward to seeing where that journey takes you.
The three promises of Medshield Medical Scheme
Trustworthiness
Medshield has been in operation since 1968, making the Scheme one of the most experienced, most knowledgeable, and most reliable medical schemes in South Africa.
Superior quality at a great price
Each of Medshield Medical Scheme’s options offers affordably priced benefits. The Scheme continuously reviews and improves the range of benefits, in each benefit option or plan, to bring members what they really need–quality healthcare at affordable prices and a range of plans that suit specific, individual needs.
Members’ claims are paid timeously
Medshield Medical Scheme received, for the 16th consecutive year, the acclaimed AA- with a positive outlook Global Credit Rating for their ability to pay out members’ claims.
What Medshield Medical Scheme stands for
Mission
Partner with stakeholders to enable access to sustainable and affordable quality healthcare through innovative products and benefits.
Vision
Partnering with members towards their personal healthcare and wellbeing.
Values
• Mutual respect
• Accountability
• Integrity
• Customer satisfaction
• Innovation
• Transparency
