Head of Legal and Compliance

Unique Personnel (PTY) Ltd; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading South African firm is seeking a Head of Legal and Compliance to provide strategic legal guidance and ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in legal leadership and regulatory compliance, along with strong skills in risk management and policy development. This role requires a Bachelor's degree in Law, admission as an Attorney, and proven leadership capabilities to effectively manage legal functions and stakeholder engagement.

Qualifications

• Proven senior-level experience in legal and compliance leadership within a regulated environment.
• Strong knowledge of corporate law, regulatory compliance, governance, and risk management.
• Experience dealing with regulators, audits, and compliance reporting.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic legal guidance to the organization.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies.
• Oversee legal operations and policy development.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Leadership skills

Education

Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

Admission as an Attorney/Advocate

Postgraduate qualification in Compliance

Job description

Job Description

The Head of Legal and Compliance is responsible for providing strategic legal guidance and ensuring the organisation operates in full compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies. This role oversees the legal…

Requirements

• Proven senior-level experience in legal and compliance leadership within a regulated environment.
• Strong knowledge of corporate law, regulatory compliance, governance, and risk management.
• Experience dealing with regulators, audits, and compliance reporting.
• Demonstrated ability to provide practical, business-focused legal advice.
• Experience in policy development, implementation, and monitoring.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management capabilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or equivalent legal qualification.
• Admission as an Attorney/Advocate (where applicable).
• Postgraduate qualification in Compliance, Risk Management, or Corporate Governance (advantageous).
• Relevant compliance certification (e.g. Compliance Institute, IAPP, or similar) is an advantage.

Skills and Competencies

• Strategic thinking and sound judgment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High ethical standards and integrity.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities.
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Leadership, coaching, and people management skills.
• Attention to detail with a strong risk‑awareness mindset.