Antoinette Vries

Experienced Death Claims Supervisor with over 17 years’ experience in pension fund administration, specialising in Section 37C death benefit investigations and claims processing. Strong expertise in dependency assessments, benefit allocation, compliance, stakeholder management and team leadership. A professional, detail-oriented and results-driven individual with excellent communication, problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Death Claims Supervisor - (MIBFA) Metal Industries Benefits Funds Administrators - Johannesburg

(2024-07)

• Conducted investigations into deceased members’ circumstances in accordance with Section 37C of the Pension Funds Act, including identifying, tracing and assessing dependants and nominees.
• Investigated and evaluated dependency relationships to assist in determining the equitable distribution of death benefits.
• Reviewed and assessed supporting documentation and evidence relating to dependants, nominees, family circumstances and financial dependency.
• Applied Section 37C of the Pension Funds Act and Fund Rules when assessing and processing death benefit claims.
• Ensured departmental standards, procedures and compliance requirements were consistently maintained.
• Managed complex queries and communicated with applicants, employers, attorneys and financial institutions.
• Made decisions regarding the distribution of death benefits in accordance with Section 37C of the Pension Funds Act and Fund Rules.
• Processed and applied tax on spouse transfers using the SARS eFiling system
• Made informed recommendations regarding the allocation and distribution of death benefits based on the outcome of investigations.
• Supervised and led a team, including staff performance, attendance, counselling and disciplinary matters.

Death Claim Team Leader - (MIBFA) Metal Industries Benefits Funds Administrators - Johannesburg

(2020-03 - 2024-06)

• Train and support staff on the correct procedures for processing claims within 37C.
• Monitor and maintain accurate staff timekeeping and attendance records.
• Compile, analyse, and submit monthly and ad hoc statistics and reports.
• Respond to and resolve queries from management, staff, and beneficiaries in a professional and timely manner.
• Assist with the interviewing and selection of prospective applicant's

Death Claim Checker - (MIBFA) Metal Industries Benefits Funds Administrators - Johannesburg

(2016-10 - 2020-02)

• Verification and processing of claims for payment
• Handling payment queries and customer complaints
• Organising and maintaining new claims
• Compiling and submitting statistical reports
• Allocating claims, including new, funeral, PDS and urgent claims
• Clearing and managing correspondence trays
• Assisting staff with queries and administrative support
• Conducting interviews and completing WinDeed verifications
• Performing bank confirmations and related verification checks

Death Claims Clerk - (MIBFA) Metal Industries Benefits Funds Administrators - Johannesburg

(2007-05 - 2016-09)

• Administered and processed death claims from receipt to final payment.
• Communicated professionally with dependants, attorneys and companies, both verbally and in writing.
• Obtained and verified supporting documentation required for claim processing and payment.
• Processed payments, pledges and advances in accordance with procedures.
• Conducted interviews with claimants and attorneys’ representatives.
• Ensured all member documentation was completed accurately and correctly.
• Prepared and submitted required statistical reports.
• Maintained accurate records and ensured compliance with administrative procedures.

Labour Statistics Clerk - (MIBFA) Metal Industries Benefits Funds Administrators - Johannesburg

(2006-07 - 2007-04)

• Reconciled company contribution schedules to identify underpayments and overpayments.
• Communicated with companies telephonically and in writing to resolve contribution payment queries.
• Liaised with MEIBC regarding refunds and contribution-related matters.
• Handled telephone enquiries and provided assistance with company queries.
• Assisted companies with data capturing and resolving queries relating to returns and general contributions.
• Reviewed and verified submitted returns for accuracy and completeness.

Admin Assistant - New Creations - Johannesburg

(2004-02 - 2006-06)

• Dealt with customers and handled general enquiries.
• Processed and managed customer orders.
• Captured and maintained accurate data.
• Performed filing and record-keeping duties.
• Provided professional typing and administrative support.

Grade 12 - Newcastle High School (2002)