Trust Officer

About Withers

A law firm focused on people and collaboration. For the past 125 years, Withers has supported some of the world's most remarkable people and organisations at defining moments in their lives. We are the only international law firm focused on successful individuals and private capital, working closely with founders, investors and family offices. We also advise governments, charities, global brands and start-ups of all shapes and sizes. Many of our clients are shaping the future and creating solutions to tackle many of the world's problems.  It makes for a fascinating and challenging practice. Our role is to get to know each individual client, find out where they want to be, and help them to get there – whether they are building a business, looking after their family, involved in a complex dispute or protecting their finances for the future. To meet their unique needs we are exceptionally collaborative, working together across teams and time zones. We are agile, focusing on strategy rather than rigid ideas and traditional hierarchy. It is a truly flexible working culture that puts people first. Join us to be part of a team that is always looking to the future. Where initiative, big ideas and bold moves are always encouraged. Where you can truly be yourself.

The Role

We are looking to recruit a Trust Officer to assist the Trust Managers to deliver a premium service to trustees.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintaining trust records in an orderly fashion and meeting necessary deadlines.
• Supporting Trust Managers in completing annual accounts, tax returns and providing beneficiaries and their accountants with necessary information.
• Responding to queries from colleagues, trustees, beneficiaries, HM Revenue and Customs and third-party advisers in relation to trust management, taxation and accounting.
• Corresponding effectively with trustees and beneficiaries, under the supervision of Trust Managers.
• Assisting in the preparation of Inheritance Tax Accounts.
• Preparing Trustees' Resolutions and co-ordinating the signing of same.
• Arranging trustees' payments to beneficiaries, to HMRC and to settle other trust-related expenses.
• Liaising with investment managers concerning investment policy, performance, valuations, statements and payments.
• Drafting straightforward wills and letters of wishes.
• Preparing trust documents.
• Preparing Lasting Powers of Attorney.
• Assisting in the registration of trusts onto the UK Trusts Register.
• Assisting in the making of Gift Aid claims.
• Assisting with the onboarding of new matters.
• Attending meetings and recording of minutes and action points.

This list of duties and responsibilities is not exhaustive.  It is intended to describe the general content and requirements for the performance of this job and, as such, the role may include the undertaking of additional tasks as required.

Person Specification

• Legal Executive or (Student) Member of STEP desirable
• Previous trust experience working in a legal practice
• Strong academics
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines
• Effective communicator, both written and verbal
• IT literate
• Demonstrable ability to work with people at all levels
• Organised and efficient

The Essentials

• Working hours are 9.30am – 5.30pm but flexibility is a must
• A minimum of at least two-days' office-based in London
• Flexible benefit package

For further information, please contact the recruitment team.

Information for Recruitment Agencies

Withers endeavours to recruit and fill vacancies directly. However, when we do need to engage with agencies, Withers operates a preferred supplier list and will not be accepting unsolicited applications from non-PSL agencies for this role.

Equal Opportunities Employment Statement

It is the policy of Withers to provide equal opportunities for all employees in relation to recruitment, training and promotion.  Decisions in these areas will be made only by reference to the requirements of the job and shall not be influenced by any consideration of ethnic origin, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation or disability.