SOUTH AFRICAN BOARD FOR SHERIFFS

CLAIMS OFFICER

Duration: Permanent

Location: Midrand, Gauteng

Remuneration: Market related

The South African Board for Sheriffs (“SABFS”) is responsible for the maintenance of the esteem of, the enhancement of the status of, and the improvement of the standard of training of and functions performed by sheriffs, in a manner that enhances access to justice.

The SABFS is seeking to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced Claims Officer to oversee the administration and investigation of claims lodged against the Fidelity Fund and the Unclaimed Trust Fund. The successful candidate will supervise the claims function, provide legal guidance on claims, liaise with insurers and stakeholders, and ensure compliance with the Sheriffs Act and applicable legislation.

This position reports to the Manager: Legal & Claims.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

The below highlights the key areas of focus but is not limited to:

1. Claims Supervision and Management

a. Supervise the administration and processing of claims lodged against the Fidelity Fund and Unclaimed Trust Fund.

b. Lead and supervise Claims Administrators to ensure effective service delivery.

c. Ensure claims are registered, processed and finalised within prescribed timelines.

d. Provide guidance and support to claims staff on complex matters.

e. Provide guidance to members of the public regarding the claims lodgement process.

f. Ensure approved claims are processed for payment accurately and timeously.

2. Claims Investigation and Legal Analysis

a. Analyse claims and assess their validity in accordance with the Sheriffs Act and applicable legislation.

b. Make recommendations on claims to the Manager: Legal & Claims.

c. Verify supporting documentation, including bank statements and payment records.

d. Ensure all required documentation is submitted before claims are considered.

e. Maintain accurate records of all claims lodged against the Fidelity Fund.

f. Draft legal opinions relating to claims.

g. Liaise with sheriffs regarding Professional Indemnity and Fidelity Guarantee Insurance matters.

3. Reporting

a. Compile and submit claims status reports on a bi-monthly basis or as required.

b. Prepare reports for the Committee, including recommendations for claims to be approved, rejected or closed.

c. Provide management with accurate claims statistics and reports.

4. Administration

a. Oversee the administration of claims files and ensure accurate record keeping.

b. Monitor telephonic and written enquiries from claimants and other stakeholders.

c. Draft correspondence to claimants, attorneys and other third parties.

d. Ensure claims information is accurately captured on SharePoint and other systems.

e. Maintain confidentiality of all claims information.

5. Insurance and Stakeholder Management

a. Interpret relevant legislation relating to claims and provide legal opinions.

b. Liaise with the Board's insurers regarding claims submitted.

c. Engage with insurers on matters relating to the Board's insurance requirements for sheriffs.

d. Build and maintain effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

a. Sound knowledge of the Sheriffs Act and relevant legislation.

b. Excellent legal drafting and legal opinion writing skills.

c. Strong analytical and investigative abilities.

d. Excellent report writing skills.

e. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

f. Sound decision-making and problem-solving skills.

g. Strong organisational and time management skills.

h. Ability to supervise and develop staff.

i. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

j. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

a. LLB Degree.

b. Admitted Attorney.

c. Minimum of 1 - 2 years' experience within the insurance or legal industry.

d. Experience in claims management and staff supervision will be advantageous.

NOTE: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should you not receive any response from SABFS within 4 weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

APPLICATION PROCESS

 A Curriculum Vitae, certified copies of ID and qualifications should be submitted to: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BVYBBQP

 Closing date for all applications – 11 August 2026

NOTE: The South African Board for Sheriffs encourages applications from people with Disabilities.