OUR EXCO
SAIFAA Exco Members have offered their valuable time to serve and with the guidance and help of a large number of Product Providers we are ready to welcome all IFAs to their own unique association!
ALEX BABICH
Chairperson
Having qualified in 1988 through the University of Natal in Natural Sciences, I entered the financial service profession after completing my officers’ course during my military training. Initially, Alexander’s financial training was done through Liberty Life, where in 1990 he became a qualified consultant liaising mainly with banking and leading independent brokers.
Once his financial training was completed, he was offered a partnership to head up a financial services division of a medium sized firm of chartered accountants namely, the Charter Financial Services Group. After a year of running the division a leading independent firm of actuaries and consultants, Fulford Brothers, approached him to join their financial services division. Fulford Brothers then merged with Alexander Forbes. Where he became an executive financial consultant.
After several years of working for the combined Fulford/Forbes operation, Ginsburg Malan & Carson approached him to join their financial services division as an executive senior consultant. Due to mergers and acquisitions, Ginsburg Malan & Carsons which in March 1999 was South Africa’s second largest and oldest actuarial practice was bought out by Alexander Forbes. Alexander subsequently decided to develop his own business interests and formed his own leading independent consulting practice, Alexander Babich & Associates (founded in March 1999).
RIANA PRETORIUS
Deputy Chairperson
In 2001 she was appointed at Liberty Life as an advisor. She completed her Post Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning(UFS) and her Advance Post Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning (Investments). Riana is a registered member of FPI. In 2007 she started her own financial planning services company.
Riana is a trustee on The Townships Project which is a charity that is involved in developing township entrepreneurs. She was a president of Rotary Club Pretoria Capital 2006 -2007 and 2013 – 2015. Riana was elected as an Assistant Governor in District 9400 2015-2018. She is involved with Rotary Means Business Fellowship. Riana is a Paul Harris Fellow.
JOHANN KRÜGER
Secretary
Johann Krüger, born in 1958 entered the Financial Services Industry in 1981 and became an Independent Broker in 1989. He completed his B Com in 1986 and B Com (Honours) in 1991 through UNISA. He is a Certified Financial Planner with an IFA practice in Eastern Gauteng and a second branch in KZN.
Johann’s extensive business experience and community service includes more than 20 years as director of a local community radio station, service in various local community organisations, school governing bodies and sport organisations.
He was the President of Eastern Gauteng Aquatics from 2004 to 2010. Johann keeps fit with road running and did various marathons and half marathons since 1990, having completed the Comrades Marathon in 2000. His other hobbies include DIY, woodwork, chess and Sudoku. Johann is a Founding Member of SAIFAA and serves as General Secretary on the EXCO and is now also Membership Director.
HARRY KALLIGIANNIS
CFO
Harry Kalligiannis is the owner and founder of Accolade Financial Planning Services (Pty) Ltd. He studied Bachelor of Commence at the University of Cape Town and, after completing his honours degree, went on to qualify as a Chartered Accountant. He initially worked in auditing and moved on to a position in financial management at Corobrik. Harry then spent 4 years as a Director at Merchant Trade Finance and gained valuable experience in advising small and medium business owners with the development of their enterprises.
In 1989 he was appointed as an advisor at Liberty Life. After completing the training courses he opened his own financial planning services company in 1991 which became the foundation of Accolade. He has over 28 years of experience in Financial Planning and has been responsible for the wellbeing of many individuals and families as well as business entities. Decades of experience ensure he has a unique insight into complex financial matters and problems which allow for a simple interpretation and solutions incorporating financial security, minimization of risk and maximization of the advantages.
BERTIE LE ROUX
Founding Member
Bertie le Roux, holds both a B Com and Hons B (Buss & Admin) from University of Stellenbosch as well as a Nat Dipl. in Education. Bertie joined Sanlam in Jun 1993, stayed for 8 years and then started Aliberti.
Business Solutions cc in 2001 focussing as an independent generalist on the full spectrum of products and services offered under a Cat l licence. Before joining Sanlam Bertie spent many years in the private and corporate environment as High School Teacher/Accountant/Financial Manager/Managing Director almost invariable changing the “environment” entrusted to him. He receive many accolades and awards for his creativity and innovative approach to the challenges at hand. Bertie has a passion for the development and growth of others – are also an NBI Practitioner and an ICF accredited Life Coach. Keen motivational speaker, mentor and councillor.
Bertie received a Honorary Paul Harris Award from Rotary International for his work as Chairperson of the Rotary Youth Exchange Program – the then District 9250. Bertie enjoy living his believes and philosophy’s and in value add therefore apply all his expertise and knowledge in the betterment of his clients thus offering and applying all his years of experience (as holistic thinker) in the interest of his clients – national and international – Health, Risk. Invest.
BUYISILE NHLABATHI-KRÜGER
Exco Member
Buyisile Nhlabathi-Krüger, Director & Key Individual at Orenco Life and Invest, brings to SAIFAA a wealth of experience from the financial services industry. Leading a Level 1 BBBEE company, she offers a comprehensive range of financial services to her clientele.
Transitioning into the financial services sector in 2013 after nearly a decade in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry, Buyi has developed a robust understanding of diverse business environments. She holds a Certificate in Financial Planning from the esteemed Milpark Business School, further cementing her expertise in the financial sphere.
But what truly sets Buyi apart is her relentless commitment to customer service. She thrives on assisting clients in bolstering their businesses amidst the challenging South African economic landscape. This zeal, combined with her proficiency in multiple indigenous languages, allows her to cater to clients across various living standards measure (LSM) levels.
These skills make Buyi the perfect addition to SAIFAA's executive committee, particularly as we aim to broaden our reach into underserved communities. Her passion for people and services is at the heart of everything she does, and we are thrilled to have her on our board.
JOHANN PEENS
Exco Member
Johann Peens (JP), is an enthusiastic finance and compliance aficionado who currently serves as an Independent Registered Financial Advisor with the Financial Planning Institute of South Africa. He is also an Independent Fund Consultant to the Umbra Umbrella Funds, contributing his deep expertise to shape their financial strategies.
Known as the Wallet Hacker at BankerX, JP thrives on decoding complex financial scenarios and revealing the simplest, most effective routes for financial growth and security. His role extends far beyond finance, into the intricate world of compliance where he ensures every step taken aligns with all necessary protocols.
JP’s passion isn't just about numbers and regulations; it's about people. He firmly believes in the power of quality independent financial advice and its ability to revolutionize lives. Keen to disrupt corporate services, he champions a more inclusive and accessible financial sector.
When he's not immersed in the world of finance, JP takes on the roles of an amazing husband and a super proud dad to two. You'll likely find him on the sidelines of a sports game, cheering on his team with the same energy he brings to his professional pursuits.
In addition to his work, JP also serves on the FPI EB Committee, a testament to his commitment to the continuous improvement and high standards of the financial planning industry. Through this role, he is able to further his impact and make a lasting difference in the financial planning landscape.
CHRIS ELLIS
Exco Member
I have a passion for independence and transparency in the Financial Services, Financial Planning and Employee Benefits industries. I am excited about the road ahead, and, as an expert in the Employee Benefits/Retirement Fund space, look forward to changing the landscape.
As a Certified Financial Planner™, I have spent 12 years learning in the evolving Employee Benefits industry and have now set out to use my knowledge and provide a service to clients that is unmatched in the industry, while continuing to learn everyday.
BECOME A MEMBER
Interested in joining SAIFAA? Becoming a member is a simple process. We will step you through the process.