South African Board For Sheriffs Claims Officer Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

The South African Board For Sheriffs (SABFS) is dedicated to upholding the integrity, enhancing the standing, and improving the standards of training and functions of sheriffs, thereby contributing to better access to justice.

The SABFS is seeking a suitably qualified and experienced Claims Officer to join their team on a permanent basis in Midrand, Gauteng. This role involves overseeing the administration and investigation of claims lodged against both the Fidelity Fund and the Unclaimed Trust Fund.

The successful candidate will play a vital role in supervising the claims function, offering legal guidance on claims, engaging with insurers and relevant stakeholders, and ensuring full compliance with the Sheriffs Act and all applicable legislation. This position reports directly to the Manager: Legal & Claims.

Minimum Requirements

• LLB Degree
• Admitted Attorney
• Minimum of 1 - 2 years of experience within the insurance or legal industry
• Sound knowledge of the Sheriffs Act and relevant legislation
• Excellent legal drafting and legal opinion writing skills
• Strong analytical and investigative abilities
• Excellent report writing skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Sound decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Ability to supervise and develop staff
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Experience in claims management and staff supervision will be advantageous

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise the administration and processing of claims lodged against the Fidelity Fund and Unclaimed Trust Fund.
• Lead and supervise Claims Administrators to ensure effective service delivery.
• Ensure claims are registered, processed, and finalised within prescribed timelines.
• Provide guidance and support to claims staff on complex matters.
• Provide guidance to members of the public regarding the claims lodgement process.
• Ensure approved claims are processed for payment accurately and timeously.
• Analyse claims and assess their validity in accordance with the Sheriffs Act and applicable legislation.
• Make recommendations on claims to the Manager: Legal & Claims.
• Verify supporting documentation, including bank statements and payment records.
• Ensure all required documentation is submitted before claims are considered.
• Maintain accurate records of all claims lodged against the Fidelity Fund.
• Draft legal opinions relating to claims.
• Liaise with sheriffs regarding Professional Indemnity and Fidelity Guarantee Insurance matters.
• Compile and submit claims status reports on a bi-monthly basis or as required.
• Prepare reports for the Committee, including recommendations for claims to be approved, rejected, or closed.
• Provide management with accurate claims statistics and reports.
• Oversee the administration of claims files and ensure accurate record keeping.
• Monitor telephonic and written enquiries from claimants and other stakeholders.
• Draft correspondence to claimants, attorneys, and other third parties.
• Ensure claims information is accurately captured on SharePoint and other systems.
• Maintain confidentiality of all claims information.
• Interpret relevant legislation relating to claims and provide legal opinions.
• Liaise with the Board's insurers regarding claims submitted.
• Engage with insurers on matters relating to the Board's insurance requirements for sheriffs.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

How to Apply

Apply online via the official application portal: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BVYBBQP