The term "official receiver" refers to an individual or body appointed by the court to oversee the liquidation or administration of a bankrupt company's assets. There are several different synonyms that may be used to describe this type of official, including trustee, liquidator, administrator, supervisor or custodian. Each of these terms describes a person or entity that is responsible for managing the financial affairs of a failing business, often with the goal of maximizing the value of any remaining assets in order to pay off creditors or investors. The official receiver plays a vital role in the bankruptcy process, and is often seen as a neutral and impartial arbiter with the power to make important decisions that will determine the fate of the company's stakeholders.