An executor is a person named in a will or appointed by a court to carry out the instructions in the will after the death of the testator (the person who created the will).

The executor is responsible for managing the estate of the deceased person, which includes tasks such as locating and managing assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing property to beneficiaries according to the terms of the will.

The executor has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries and must follow the instructions set out in the will. The role of executor can be complex and time-consuming and may involve legal and financial responsibilities.

Executors may be compensated for their services, and are often chosen for their trustworthiness and financial expertise. If an executor is not named in a will or is unable or unwilling to serve, the court may appoint an administrator to carry out the duties of the executor.