Chief Data Privacy Counsel

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Bonus schemes

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Life insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Our client, a prominent financial services institution in Cape Town, seeks a Lead Data Privacy Counsel to oversee global privacy programs, ensure POPIA/GDPR compliance, and advise on data processing, cross-border transfers, and data breach responses.

The role requires Admitted Attorney with 7+ years of data privacy experience, strong knowledge of privacy laws, and the ability to lead policies, train staff, and collaborate with IT and compliance teams in a fast-moving regulatory environment.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney with a minimum of 7 years of post-qualification experience, with a significant focus on data privacy law.
• In-depth knowledge and practical experience with POPIA, GDPR, and other international privacy frameworks.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing data privacy programs for large organizations.
• Strong understanding of data security principles and technologies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience in conducting DPIAs and managing data breach responses.
• Ability to work independently and manage complex legal projects effectively.
• Experience in the financial services sector is a strong advantage.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., CIPP/E, CIPM) are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage the company's global data privacy program in accordance with POPIA, GDPR, and other relevant regulations.
• Provide expert legal advice on all aspects of data privacy, including data collection, usage, storage, transfer, and deletion.
• Conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) for new projects and initiatives involving personal data.
• Draft and review privacy policies, notices, consent forms, and data processing agreements.
• Advise on cross-border data transfers and international privacy compliance.
• Manage data breach incidents, including investigation, notification, and remediation efforts.
• Train and educate employees on data privacy obligations and best practices.
• Collaborate with IT security, compliance, and business units to ensure privacy-by-design principles are embedded.
• Stay abreast of evolving privacy laws and regulatory guidance, adapting the company's program accordingly.
• Represent the company in interactions with data protection authorities.

Job description

Our client, a prominent financial services institution in Cape Town, seeks a Lead Data Privacy Counsel to oversee global privacy programs, ensure POPIA/GDPR compliance, and advise on data processing, cross-border transfers, and data breach responses.

The role requires Admitted Attorney with 7+ years of data privacy experience, strong knowledge of privacy laws, and the ability to lead policies, train staff, and collaborate with IT and compliance teams in a fast-moving regulatory environment.