Lead 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

About the Role

Our client, a prominent financial services institution based in **Cape Town, Western Cape**, is looking for an exceptional Lead Data Privacy Counsel. This pivotal role will be responsible for overseeing the company's data privacy compliance strategy and ensuring adherence to all applicable data protection laws, including POPIA. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of privacy regulations, data security principles, and cross-border data transfer requirements. You will play a key role in developing and implementing robust privacy policies and procedures, advising on data processing activities, and managing data breach responses. This position is crucial for maintaining the trust of our clients and protecting sensitive information in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. The role is based in a vibrant **Cape Town, Western Cape** office, offering a dynamic professional environment.

Key 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.

Requirements

• 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.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive salary package, attractive bonus schemes, and comprehensive benefits including medical aid, a retirement fund, and life insurance.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning are actively encouraged.
• The role offers significant exposure to cutting-edge data privacy challenges within a leading financial institution in **Cape Town, Western Cape**.
• A supportive team environment and the chance to shape the future of data privacy for the company are key aspects of this role.