What is the term for a man or woman appointed by the will of a deceased person to manage the estate?

The term for a person appointed by the will of a deceased individual to manage the estate is "Executor" for a male and "Executrix" for a female. This role involves carrying out the instructions specified in the will, which can include settling debts, distributing assets, and ensuring adherence to the deceased's wishes regarding the estate. The executor or executrix has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the estate and its beneficiaries, which requires both legal knowledge and good organizational skills.

In contrast, an administrator is appointed when there is no will, while a trustee manages assets placed in a trust, and a guardian is responsible for the care of minors or dependents. These roles serve different purposes, emphasizing why the executor/executrix is the correct term related specifically to managing a will-based estate.