Lead Data Privacy Counsel

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

Benefits offered by this job

Remote role

Performance bonus

Stock options

Medical benefits

Professional development

Home office stipend

Flexible hours

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Data Privacy Counsel to shape and implement a global data privacy strategy for a remote-first South African footprint. You will advise on privacy, data protection, and information security, support cross-border transfers, and guide product teams on privacy by design in a high-impact technology environment.

The role emphasizes independence in a remote setting, with opportunities for professional development and a competitive compensation package in ZAR, including bonuses

Qualifications

• LLB or equivalent legal qualification.
• Admission as an Attorney or Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
• 8+ years of post-qualification experience with data privacy focus.
• Strong knowledge of POPIA and GDPR and international regulations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain data privacy policies compliant with POPIA and GDPR.
• Provide legal advice on privacy, data protection, and information security.
• Conduct DPIAs and advise on privacy-by-design principles.
• Manage data subject access requests and regulatory inquiries.
• Oversee data breach incident response protocols and investigations.
• Develop and deliver data privacy training across the organization.
• Liaise with data protection authorities and regulators globally.
• Advise on cross-border data transfers and international compliance.
• Support product teams on privacy considerations for new features.
• Stay current with evolving data privacy laws and best practices.

Skills

Data privacy law

Regulatory compliance

DPIA experience

Policy development

Advisory skills

Education

LLB or equivalent

Admission as Attorney/Advocate

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global technology leader, is establishing a significant remote-first legal presence in South Africa and is looking for a highly experienced Lead Data Privacy Counsel to join their innovative team. This position is fully remote, allowing you to work from anywhere within South Africa, with a primary focus on supporting operations and compliance relevant to Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, and beyond. You will be instrumental in shaping and implementing the company's global data privacy strategy, ensuring compliance with regulations such as POPIA, GDPR, and other international data protection laws. This role requires a proactive, self-motivated individual comfortable working autonomously in a remote environment. You will act as the primary legal point of contact for all data privacy matters, advising business stakeholders on data handling, policy development, and risk mitigation. This is a truly remote role designed for maximum flexibility and global reach.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive data privacy policies, procedures, and documentation to ensure compliance with POPIA, GDPR, and other applicable laws.
• Provide expert legal advice and strategic guidance on all aspects of data privacy, data protection, and information security to business units.
• Conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) and advise on privacy-by-design principles.
• Manage and respond to data subject access requests and regulatory inquiries.
• Oversee data breach incident response protocols and investigations.
• Develop and deliver data privacy training programs to employees across the organization.
• Liaise with Data Protection Authorities and other regulatory bodies globally.
• Advise on cross-border data transfers and international data privacy compliance.
• Support product development teams on privacy considerations for new features and services.
• Stay current with evolving data privacy laws and best practices worldwide.

Requirements

• An LLB degree or equivalent legal qualification.
• Admission as an Attorney or Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
• A minimum of 8 years of post-qualification experience, with a significant specialization in data privacy law, information security law, or related fields.
• In-depth knowledge and practical experience with South African POPIA and international regulations like GDPR.
• Proven ability to develop and implement effective data privacy programs.
• Experience conducting DPIAs and managing data breach incidents.
• Excellent understanding of technology concepts related to data processing and security.
• Exceptional analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage a demanding workload, and meet deadlines in a remote setting.
• Experience in a technology-driven industry is a strong asset.

Benefits

• A highly competitive annual salary package of ZAR .
• This is a 100% Remote position, offering unparalleled flexibility.
• Annual performance-based bonus and potential for stock options.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for advanced professional development and certifications in data privacy.
• Direct impact on global privacy strategy for a leading tech company.
• Allowance for home office setup and connectivity.
• Flexible working hours to accommodate different time zones.