Legal Advisor - Financial Services

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,350,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Medical aid and retirement benefits

Study and professional development

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Legal Advisor for our client in East London, SA. You will provide expert legal counsel on financial services matters, including regulatory compliance, contract law, and governance, helping the institution navigate a dynamic regulatory landscape.

You must have an LLB, be admitted as an Attorney or Advocate, and 6+ years post-qualification experience in financial services law. Strong drafting, research, and advisory skills are essential.

Qualifications

• LLB degree or equivalent qualification.
• Admitted as Attorney or Advocate in SA High Court.
• 6+ years post-qualification experience in financial services law.
• Proven experience in regulatory compliance (FICA, FAIS, POPIA).
• Strong drafting and negotiation skills for financial products and services.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice on financial services regulations.
• Draft, review and negotiate financial services agreements and product documentation.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Advise on risk management and corporate governance within financial services.
• Manage disputes, investigations and regulatory inquiries.
• Conduct legal research on financial law developments and provide strategic recommendations.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies such as FSCA.
• Support product development with legal and regulatory guidance.
• Assist in developing and implementing compliance programs and policies.

Skills

Regulatory compliance

Contract law

Drafting & negotiation

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Education

LLB degree

Admission as Attorney/Advocate (SA)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading financial institution with a strong presence in the region, is seeking a highly competent Legal Advisor to join their established legal department in East London . This role is integral to providing expert legal counsel and support on a diverse range of financial services matters, including regulatory compliance, consumer protection, contract law, and corporate governance within the financial sector. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in ensuring the institution operates within legal and regulatory frameworks and effectively manages legal risks. This is an excellent opportunity for a legal professional with a passion for financial services law to contribute to a reputable organization. We are looking for an individual with strong analytical skills, a thorough understanding of financial regulations, and the ability to provide practical, business-oriented legal advice. The position demands meticulous attention to detail and a proactive approach.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice on all aspects of financial services regulations, including FICA, FAIS, and POPIA.
• Draft, review, and negotiate various financial services agreements, product documentation, and customer contracts.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulatory requirements impacting the financial sector.
• Advise on corporate governance and risk management within the financial services context.
• Manage and resolve legal disputes, investigations, and regulatory inquiries.
• Conduct legal research on financial law developments and provide strategic recommendations.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies, such as the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA).
• Support product development and innovation with legal and regulatory guidance.
• Assist in the development and implementation of compliance programs and policies.

Requirements

• A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree or equivalent qualification.
• Admission as an Attorney or Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
• A minimum of 6 years of post-qualification experience, with a significant focus on financial services law and regulation.
• Proven experience in advising on regulatory compliance (FICA, FAIS, POPIA).
• Strong understanding of contract law as it applies to financial products and services.
• Excellent drafting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to interpret complex legislation and provide clear guidance.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Experience within the financial services industry in East London or the Eastern Cape is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and relevant certifications.
• Exposure to complex legal challenges within the financial services sector.
• A professional and collaborative work environment.
• Potential for career advancement within a reputable financial institution.
• Study leave and financial assistance for further qualifications.