Governance and cooking may seem like two completely different worlds, but upon closer inspection, they share more similarities than one might think. Both require attention to detail, precision, and a dedication to excellence. Just as a chef meticulously selects the finest ingredients and follows a time-tested recipe to create a perfect dish, a governance leader carefully examines risk indicators and compliance reports to ensure the stability and integrity of a medical scheme.
Marnus Kruger, head of Operations at Medihelp Medical Scheme and a seasoned attorney, draws parallels between his love for Italian cuisine and his approach to governance. He believes that both disciplines require discipline, integrity, and balance to achieve success.
At the core of every reputable medical scheme lies a robust governance framework, much like the essential ingredients and proper process that are the foundation of a perfect Italian dish. Effective governance protects financial reserves, safeguards against mismanagement and fraud, and ensures the long-term viability of the scheme. Without a strong governance structure in place, members are left vulnerable, as evidenced by the liquidation of Health Squared Medical Scheme in 2020.
Just as chefs honor time-tested recipes, governance professionals adhere to ethical standards, compliance, and transparency. Integrity is a core value that guides Kruger in both his culinary pursuits and his leadership decisions. Quality inputs, whether in the form of fresh ingredients for a dish or competent trustees for governance, determine the quality of outcomes. Timing is crucial in both cooking and governance, as a slight delay can have significant consequences. Regional sensitivity and local adaptation are key factors in both Italian cuisine and governance, requiring flexibility and agility to respond to changing demographics and regulations.
Continuous refinement is essential in both culinary excellence and governance, as feedback and reviews help to improve processes and structures over time. Kruger identifies three key pillars of enviable governance: financial oversight, regulatory compliance, and ethical management. When these elements align, they create a structure capable of withstanding scrutiny and challenges.
In conclusion, excellence lies in the details at Medihelp, whether in cooking a nourishing dish or designing a governance framework that protects a community. The principles of honoring ingredients, respecting the process, and never cutting corners apply equally to both realms. By applying the same level of care and dedication to governance as one would to cooking, both can achieve resilience and success.
