Legal Counsel – Trust & Estate Planning (US Focus)

About the role

GVW Group is seeking a Legal Counsel specialized in Trust and Estate matters to support its ownership family and operating companies. Based in Durbanville, South Africa, the role requires extensive U.S. estate planning and tax experience to manage multi‑jurisdictional structures.

Key responsibilities

• Research and draft memoranda on cross‑border estate and trust planning, including tax and structural considerations.
• Design, establish, and oversee estate and trust entities aligned with the family’s long‑term objectives.
• Collaborate with tax advisors to integrate estate planning with broader enterprise tax strategies.
• Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements for formation and ongoing management of trust structures.
• Identify and communicate risks associated with current and proposed structures.
• Liaise with trustees, beneficiaries, and grantors throughout planning, execution, and administration.
• Advise on strategies to maintain continuity of ownership and governance.
• Lead or support special projects and strategic initiatives as assigned.

Required profile

• Minimum 5 years of experience in U.S. trust, estate planning, and administration.
• Admission to practice law in any U.S. state (preference for Illinois, Florida, or Ohio).
• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; LLM in Taxation is highly beneficial.
• Cross‑border and U.S. contracting experience is a plus.

Required skills

• Strong verbal and written communication.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational abilities.
• Self‑starter with robust legal research and drafting capabilities.