Legal Counsel - Regulatory Compliance

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive salary package

Comprehensive medical aid and pension/

Ongoing professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Legal Counsel specializing in Regulatory Compliance for a prominent financial services institution in Paarl, Western Cape. The role focuses on adhering to FAIS, FICA, and POPIA, monitoring regulatory changes, and advising senior management on compliance matters.

The ideal candidate is an admitted attorney with 6+ years post-qualification experience, strong analytical abilities, and the capacity to implement comprehensive compliance programs across multiple business

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney with a minimum of 6 years post-qualification experience focusing on financial services regulation and compliance.
• In-depth knowledge of SA financial services legislation (FAIS, FICA, Companies Act, POPIA).
• Proven experience developing and implementing compliance programs.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and research skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication with the ability to explain regulatory requirements clearly.

Responsibilities

• Monitor, interpret, and advise on regulatory developments impacting the financial services industry.
• Develop and implement compliance policies, procedures, and controls.
• Conduct regulatory risk assessments and assist in mitigation strategies.
• Manage regulatory filings and submissions to authorities (e.g., FSCA).
• Investigate potential compliance breaches and recommend corrective actions.
• Provide legal and compliance training to employees across departments.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies and external advisors on compliance matters.
• Advise on legal implications of new product development and business initiatives from a compliance perspective.
• Review marketing materials for regulatory compliance.
• Maintain records of compliance activities and regulatory interactions.

Skills

Regulatory compliance

Regulatory analysis

Legal research

Communication

Education

Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent financial services institution based in Paarl, Western Cape , is seeking a dedicated Legal Counsel with a specialization in Regulatory Compliance. This vital role involves ensuring the organization adheres to all applicable financial regulations, laws, and internal policies. The successful candidate will be responsible for monitoring regulatory changes, assessing their impact on the business, and implementing necessary compliance measures. We are looking for a knowledgeable and proactive legal professional with a strong understanding of the South African financial services landscape, including legislation such as FAIS, FICA, and POPIA. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to the integrity and stability of a leading financial institution. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional analytical skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to provide strategic compliance advice to senior management and various business units. Join a team committed to upholding the highest standards of compliance in the beautiful Paarl region.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor, interpret, and advise on all relevant regulatory developments impacting the financial services industry.
• Develop and implement compliance policies, procedures, and controls to ensure adherence to legal and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct regulatory risk assessments and assist in the development of mitigation strategies.
• Manage regulatory filings and submissions to relevant authorities (e.g., FSCA).
• Investigate potential compliance breaches and recommend appropriate corrective actions.
• Provide legal and compliance training to employees across various departments.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies and external advisors on compliance matters.
• Advise on the legal implications of new product development and business initiatives from a compliance perspective.
• Review marketing materials and communications for regulatory compliance.
• Maintain comprehensive records of compliance activities and regulatory interactions.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney with a minimum of 6 years of post-qualification experience, with a strong focus on financial services regulation and compliance.
• In-depth knowledge of South African financial services legislation (e.g., FAIS, FICA, Companies Act, POPIA).
• Proven experience in developing and implementing compliance programs.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and research skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex regulatory requirements clearly.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• High ethical standards and a commitment to professional integrity.
• Experience interacting with regulatory authorities is a significant advantage.
• Proficiency in legal research and compliance management software.
• A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree is essential.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package, reflecting expertise and experience.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development and certifications.
• A collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment in Paarl, Western Cape .
• Annual performance-based bonuses.
• Access to cutting-edge legal and compliance resources.