2020 INTEGRATED REPORT

Izak Smit PPS Group CEO CEO’S MESSAGE TO MEMBERS (CONTINUED) CYBER-SECURITY As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, and as remote-working becomes a normal feature of the operating landscape of many professionals and industries, including financial services, cyber-security will pose an increasing challenge to individuals and companies – big or small. The most recent PwC Annual Global CEO Survey has identified cyber- threats as the second most significant risk that organisations face globally. During lockdown, there was indeed a world-wide increase in phishing and hacking attempts. After our financial year-end, PPS fell victim to a malicious cyber-attack in March 2021. Fortunately, our member data was not compromised. The attack did, however, affect our ability to serve our members in line with the high standards that they are accustomed to. We managed to set up alternate measures to serve members, albeit with slower turnaround times, and were eventually able to restore all our systems. Needless to say, cyber-security will remain a major focus area and will continue to enjoy significant attention in future. THANK YOU I have commented in previous reports that tough times typically bring out either the best or the worst in people, and this was never truer than in 2020. The unwavering commitment of our employees was humbling to witness. In recent times, we made a huge efforttostronglyembedourthreecorevaluesatPPS,of taking extreme ownership, of curiosity and openness to new learning, and of doing the right thing. This paid huge dividends in 2020. Operating remotely for most of the year, from more than a thousand homes across South Africa, was possible due to individuals feeling empowered and taking full ownership. We all had to learn new ways of doing things, embracing new tools. Decisions were guided by always trying to do the right thing for the business and ultimately for our members, ensuring fairness between different cohorts. The events of 2020 made us stronger as a team. Ironically, despite being physically removed from each other, we have never felt closer as a team, or prouder to work for this brand. It is a privilege to be part of such a team of outstanding and talented people. I thank our employees for their hard work and spirit in challenging circumstances. It was also a year during which the executive team and our non-executive board members had to work closely together. The support that I continue to enjoy from a strong and diverse board is invaluable. Both the chair of PPS Holdings Trust, Dr Sybil Seoka, and of PPS Insurance, Charles Erasmus, are valued sources of advice and support. I want to use the opportunity to express my condolences to many staff and members who have experienced loss during these times. We are conscious that most families had to live through some form of trauma or challenge. Finally, a thank you to our members who trust us with their financial security. A crisis is a gateway, and I believe that PPS is indeed coming through it stronger than ever before, to go from strength to strength, for the betterment of our professional members. 48 | PPS INTEGRATED REPORT 2020