Our people

Head of Etana’s Construction, Engineering and Guarantees team, Nick Swart, commonly known as “Blackman” by fellow Etanans, has been with the company since 2008.

Nick runs the centre that underwrites construction and engineering risks. In addition he provides guarantees for performance of contracts as well as other financial products.

“Before joining Etana I worked at Hollard as Group Property and Facilities manager,” comments Nick. “I really do believe in Etana’s aim to employ the best Etanans to work and help the company grow from strength to strength. This aspect also helps show that we are serious about being recognised for our expertise and professionalism.”

Nick regards himself as an enthusiastic participant in many activities. He enjoys reading and the outdoors, swimming, fly fishing and cycling in particular, and in 2010 completed an event with the MTN cycling team sponsored by Etana. Nick has now taken up reading music and learning to play the saxophone.

“I have enjoyed watching Etana’s growth and exploration of new markets with new products and systems,” highlights Nick. “A critical factor in the industry is the need for constant innovation and hard work which is encouraged and recognised.”

Nick enjoys family time and enjoys the fact that wife Rene tucks him into bed every night without fail. They have four children, Patricia who is 20 years old and studies physiology at UCT, Matthew in matric at St Alban’s, Luke,16, at St Stithians and Christopher who is six years old and the one Nick believes is his pension thief.

Nick is much undecided about choosing his favourite red item and jokes that he cannot pick between his Ferrari and Porsche. However he has a killer insurance story he is willing to share, which features an insurance broker who visits a farmer and is introduced to his three-legged pig. Nick prefers that when you do ask him to share this story you bring along a cup of coffee, a beer or a glass of whiskey.