In-House Counsel - Technology

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity options

Annual performance bonus

Private medical aid

Provident fund

Flexible working arrangements

Continuous training programs

Conferences

International exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an in-house counsel for its Stellenbosch-based tech client to navigate complex technology law and data privacy matters. You will shape strategic legal decisions across IP, contracts, and governance while supporting rapid international expansion.

The role requires an admitted SA attorney with 5-7 years PQE, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with 5-7 years post-qualification experience.
• Experience in technology law, IP, and data privacy is essential.
• Proven ability to draft and negotiate complex technology-related contracts.
• Strong understanding of commercial law principles and corporate governance.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic legal advice on intellectual property matters, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights.
• Draft, review, and negotiate software licensing, SaaS agreements, and partnership contracts.
• Ensure compliance with data protection regulations (e.g., POPIA, GDPR).
• Advise on corporate governance and compliance matters for the group.
• Support product development teams by providing legal guidance on new features and services.
• Manage and resolve legal disputes, including litigation and arbitration where necessary.
• Conduct legal research and provide analysis on emerging legal trends in the technology sector.
• Liaise with external counsel and manage external legal spend.
• Develop and maintain internal legal policies and procedures.

Skills

Technology law

IP & data privacy

Contract drafting

Commercial law

Governance

Analytical skills

Communication

Tools

Legal research tools

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering technology company renowned for its innovative software solutions, is seeking a proactive and commercially astute In-House Counsel to join their dynamic legal team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This role is integral to supporting the company's rapid growth and international expansion. You will be responsible for a wide spectrum of legal matters, including intellectual property, data privacy, commercial contracts, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of technology law and enjoy navigating the legal complexities of the tech industry. This position offers a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to make a significant impact within a forward-thinking organization located in the vibrant Stellenbosch, Western Cape area.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic legal advice on intellectual property matters, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights.


• Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of commercial agreements, such as software licensing, SaaS agreements, and partnership contracts.


• Ensure compliance with data protection regulations (e.g., POPIA, GDPR).


• Advise on corporate governance and compliance matters for the group.


• Support product development teams by providing legal guidance on new features and services.


• Manage and resolve legal disputes, including litigation and arbitration where necessary.


• Conduct legal research and provide analysis on emerging legal trends in the technology sector.


• Liaise with external counsel and manage external legal spend.


• Develop and maintain internal legal policies and procedures.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with 5-7 years of post-qualification experience.


• Experience in technology law, intellectual property, and/or data privacy is essential.


• Proven ability to draft and negotiate complex technology-related contracts.


• Strong understanding of commercial law principles and corporate governance.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.


• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.


• Experience working in-house or with technology clients is highly desirable.


• Proficiency in legal research tools and standard office software.


• Adaptable and eager to learn new areas of law.

Benefits

• highly competitive salary package


• equity options


• annual performance bonus


• private medical aid


• a generous provident fund


• flexible working arrangements


• continuous training programs


• conferences


• opportunities for international exposure

This role is based in our modern offices in scenic Stellenbosch, Western Cape , offering a stimulating work environment.

Join a company at the forefront of technological innovation and build a rewarding career.