In-House Legal Counsel - Financial Services

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced In-House Legal Counsel for a leading financial services institution in Paarl, Western Cape. The role focuses on regulatory compliance, contract review, and commercial advisory within a dynamic legal team.

The successful candidate will handle FAIS, FICA, POPIA matters, draft and negotiate agreements, and support governance and risk management. Data privacy expertise will be advantageous.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney with ≥6 years post-qualification experience, preferably in financial services or corporate law.
• Strong regulatory compliance knowledge of South African financial services laws.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills; proactive risk management mindset.
• Knowledge of data privacy laws (POPIA) is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice on financial services regulations and compliance.
• Draft, review, and negotiate commercial agreements and vendor contracts.
• Ensure regulatory compliance and assist in policy development and implementation.
• Manage disputes and coordinate with external counsel as needed.
• Conduct legal research on emerging trends affecting the financial services sector.
• Advise on governance, risk management, and product development from a legal perspective.

Skills

Regulatory compliance

Legal drafting

Negotiation

Communication

Data privacy

Education

Admission as Attorney (SA)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading financial services institution, is seeking a proficient In-House Legal Counsel to join their sophisticated legal team in Paarl, Western Cape . This role is integral to providing expert legal advice on a broad spectrum of financial services regulations, compliance matters, and commercial transactions. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of the financial sector's legal landscape and a proactive approach to managing legal risks. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a reputable organization in a critical advisory capacity.

Key Responsibilities

Provide legal advice and interpretation on financial services regulations, including FAIS, FICA, POPIA, and other relevant legislation. Draft, review, and negotiate commercial agreements, including service level agreements, partnership agreements, and vendor contracts. Ensure the company's compliance with all applicable financial services laws and industry best practices. Assist in the development and implementation of compliance policies and procedures. Manage and resolve legal disputes and litigation matters, coordinating with external counsel as needed. Conduct legal research on emerging legal trends and their impact on the financial services sector. Advise on corporate governance and risk management strategies. Support product development by providing legal input and ensuring regulatory adherence.

Requirements

Admitted Attorney with at least 6 years of post-qualification experience, preferably with a focus on financial services law and/or corporate commercial law. Demonstrated expertise in regulatory compliance within the financial services industry. Strong understanding of South African financial services legislation and market practices. Excellent drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills. Ability to manage complex legal issues and provide practical, business-focused solutions. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with senior management and regulatory bodies. A proactive, self-motivated individual with a keen eye for detail. Experience in data privacy and protection laws (e.g., POPIA) is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance-based bonuses, excellent medical aid and retirement benefits, and significant opportunities for professional growth and development within the dynamic financial services sector. The role provides flexibility and the chance to work within a supportive team environment in the beautiful region of Paarl, Western Cape .