Director of Personal Trust Services

The Opportunity

Our client, a specialized financial services firm, is seeking a high-level Director of Personal Trust Services to join their senior leadership team. Reporting directly to the Chief Fiduciary Officer, this individual will play a pivotal role in managing a dedicated team while driving the growth of assets, revenue, and the firm's professional reputation.

What You Can Expect

Team Leadership & Development

• Provide direct management for a team of Trust Officers and Administrators to ensure premier client service.
• Act as a coach and mentor, fostering a culture of professional growth and building a talent pipeline.
• Oversee personnel matters, including performance reviews, workload distribution, and professional training.
• Lead team-building initiatives to maintain a cohesive, high-performing environment during organizational transitions.

Fiduciary Administration & Oversight

• Ensure all appointments are administered in strict accordance with governing agreements and applicable state and federal regulations.
• Manage a select portfolio of complex trust accounts (Settlement, Directed, and Wealth Management).
• Provide oversight for critical administrative cycles, including tax reporting, court accountings, and annual account reviews.
• Facilitate the smooth transition of new accounts from the onboarding phase to long-term administration.

Strategic Operations & Risk Management

• Serve as a key member or Chair of the Trust Committee, leading discussions on account acceptance and discretionary distributions.
• Identify and mitigate administrative risks by resolving client concerns and managing sensitive "watch list" accounts.
• Collaborate with business development teams to assess the risk and complexity of prospective new business.

What You Bring

Required Professional Experience

• Trust Expertise: A minimum of 10 years of experience in professional trust administration is mandatory.
• Management History: At least 5 years of experience in a formal management or supervisory capacity.
• Technical Knowledge: Deep familiarity with Settlement Trusts, Directed Trusts, and sophisticated estate planning techniques.
• Education: A Bachelor’s degree is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced Credentials: Professional designations such as a Juris Doctor (JD) or Certified Trust and Financial Advisor (CTFA) are highly desirable but not required.
• Team Dynamics: Proven ability to manage a diverse team, ranging from seasoned veterans to those newer to the industry.

Key Competencies

• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with significant internal movement.
• Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional communication skills with the ability to represent the firm to attorneys, advisors, and high-net-worth clients.

Compensation & Logistics

• Strong base compensation with competitive bonus structure.
• Relocation assistance available if needed