Head of Deceased Estates Administration

SUMMARY:
Exciting Opportunity: Head of Deceased Estates Administration – Lead, Innovate, and Deliver Exceptional Client Service

POSITION INFO:

Job Title: Head of Deceased Estates Administration

Position Overview: An exciting opportunity has arisen for a highly skilled and experienced professional to take on the role of Head of Deceased Estates Administration. This senior leadership position requires an individual with extensive experience in managing and overseeing the administration of deceased estates, along with a proven ability to lead a team to deliver exceptional performance. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies to streamline and improve operational efficiencies while ensuring compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership & Development:

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive estates administration strategy that aligns with broader organizational goals.
  • Evaluate and enhance the team''s systems and processes to ensure continuous improvement and efficiency.
  • Collaborate with senior leadership to identify and leverage technology solutions to improve team performance and business outcomes.

• Team Management & People Development:

  • Lead, mentor, and manage a high-performing team, ensuring they have the skills and support to meet business objectives.
  • Cultivate a positive and collaborative team culture that fosters employee engagement, motivation, and productivity.
  • Drive employee growth and development through training programs, feedback, and performance management processes.

• Operational Excellence & Financial Oversight:

  • Oversee the administration of deceased estates, ensuring the timely and accurate completion of all estate-related processes.
  • Manage departmental budgets, monitor expenditures, and implement cost-saving initiatives in alignment with company goals.
  • Address and manage any financial risks or challenges that may arise, ensuring all financial activities comply with internal policies and regulations.

• Governance & Compliance:

  • Ensure adherence to all relevant legal and regulatory frameworks, including the Administration of Estates Act, Intestate Succession Act, and other related legislation.
  • Implement risk management practices and compliance policies to safeguard the business and maintain high standards of governance.
  • Investigate and resolve instances of non-compliance, taking appropriate action when necessary.

Key Qualifications:

• Education:

  • A relevant Legal or Commercial Degree (essential).
  • A relevant Postgraduate Qualification (advantageous).
  • Fiduciary Institute of Southern Africa (FISA) certification (essential).
  • Professional admission as an attorney or accountant (advantageous).

• Experience:

  • A minimum of 10-15 years of experience in fiduciary services, with at least 5 years in a managerial role.
  • Proven experience in managing and administering deceased estates of varying complexity.

• Skills & Knowledge:

  • Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
  • In-depth knowledge of relevant legal frameworks and regulatory practices (including Estate Duty Act, FICA, FAIS, POPIA, and others).
  • Solid understanding of governance, risk management, and compliance principles.

Competencies:

• Ability to develop and execute strategic initiatives.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Analytical skills with the ability to manage complex financial and operational tasks.
• Exceptional communication skills and the ability to foster strong internal and external relationships.
• Business acumen with a focus on driving results and performance.