Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa, May 2025 – Ashley Van Der Merwe has been appointed as Head of People Systems and Transformation at Vitality, where she will spearhead the strategic direction, implementation, and optimization of HR technology platforms and digital transformation initiatives across the People function. His new role focuses on aligning systems with business goals, enhancing employee experience, ensuring data-driven decision-making, and integrating innovative, scalable HR solutions.
Prior to this appointment, Ashley served at Vitality Global for over six years, most recently as Human Resources Business Partner. In this capacity, he was instrumental in designing and operationalizing HR strategies that addressed recruitment, learning and development, performance management, and employee engagement. His work included supporting leadership teams to meet employment equity targets, budget planning, and wellness initiatives. He previously held the role of People Strategy Enablement Specialist, leading global HR and learning projects aligned with business growth and talent development.
Before his tenure at Vitality Global, Ashley worked with Discovery Limited for nearly five years, advancing from Head of HR Projects & Learning to People Strategy Enablement Manager. He was responsible for driving strategic HR initiatives across Discovery Insure, focusing on operating efficiencies, talent management, leadership development, and transformation strategies. His leadership in implementing organizational change and aligning HR strategy with business units was a hallmark of her role.
Earlier in his career, Ashley held roles including Human Resource and Training Manager and Training Manager, where he directed recruitment, training, employee relations, and engagement initiatives. These experiences honed his expertise in performance systems, OD planning, and employee wellness. His early leadership roles in training, quality assurance, and HR began at Vitality UK, where he spent over five years managing learning programs, change management, and stakeholder engagement.
In his foundational years, Ashley built a strong base in customer service and recruitment through roles at Daimler Chrysler, Discovery Limited, and Expotel (UK). He gained valuable experience in customer care, call center operations, research consulting, and training coordination. These roles sharpened her ability to manage relationships, drive process improvements, and deliver impactful employee development initiatives.
About Vitality
Vitality is a leading health and life insurance company committed to helping people live longer, healthier, and more financially secure lives. With a focus on incentivizing positive lifestyle changes, Vitality’s products are designed to empower individuals in managing their well-being. As of June 2018, more than one million members have benefited from better health outcomes and improved financial protection through the Vitality ecosystem.
Read Also : When HR “Produces Nothing”: A Response to Jennifer Sey’s Anti-HR Vision
The Fine Balance: Navigating Work, Life, and Mental Wellbeing
Mind the Leadership Gap – From Learning to Real-World Impact
How the Adecco Group is empowering its employees for the future of work
