Remote Lead Data Privacy Counsel

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid time off

Home office stipend

Professional development

Remote-first culture

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Remote Lead Data Privacy Counsel to spearhead our client's data protection program. This strategic role requires deep expertise in POPIA, GDPR, and CCPA, with the ability to lead a remote team and mentor privacy lawyers.

You will develop global privacy policies, perform DPIAs, oversee data breach planning, and advise on cross-border transfers while staying ahead of evolving regulations.

Qualifications

• Admitted SA attorney with 8+ PQE in data privacy.
• Deep knowledge of POPIA, GDPR, CCPA and cross-border transfers.
• Experience leading a remote privacy team.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee global data privacy program and policies.
• Advise on privacy implications of new products and services.
• Lead DPIAs and data breach response planning.
• Mentor privacy legal professionals and liaise with authorities/external counsel.
• Deliver privacy training across the organization.

Skills

Admitted Attorney

Data privacy law

DPIA experience

Global regulations

Team leadership

CIPP certification

Education

LLB degree or equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in technology solutions, is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Remote Lead Data Privacy Counsel to spearhead their data protection initiatives. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive data privacy strategies, ensuring compliance with global regulations such as POPIA, GDPR, and CCPA. This role requires a deep understanding of data privacy law, risk management, and the ability to lead and mentor a team. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the privacy framework of an innovative company and work on cutting-edge data protection challenges. We are committed to building a robust privacy program that safeguards user data and maintains trust. The position demands exceptional leadership, technical legal expertise, and strategic vision.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and oversee the company's global data privacy program and policies.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable data protection laws and regulations worldwide, including POPIA, GDPR, and CCPA.
• Provide expert legal counsel on data privacy implications of new products, services, and business initiatives.
• Conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) and advise on mitigation strategies.
• Manage data breach response planning and execution.
• Develop and deliver data privacy training to employees across the organization.
• Liaise with data protection authorities and external counsel on privacy-related matters.
• Lead and mentor a team of privacy legal professionals.
• Advise on cross-border data transfers and international privacy compliance.
• Stay current with evolving data privacy laws, technologies, and best practices.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with at least 8 years of post-qualification experience, with a significant focus on data privacy and protection law.
• Extensive knowledge of global data privacy regulations (POPIA, GDPR, CCPA, etc.).
• Proven experience in developing and implementing data privacy programs and policies.
• Experience in managing and mentoring legal teams is essential.
• Excellent strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly.
• Ability to work autonomously and manage a remote team effectively.
• CIPP (Certified Information Privacy Professional) certification is highly desirable.
• Experience in the technology sector is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, commensurate with the seniority and remote nature of this role.
• Benefits include comprehensive private medical aid, a retirement fund, and generous paid time off.
• As a remote-first company, we provide excellent support for remote work, including home office stipends.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, leadership growth, and exposure to international privacy landscapes are available.
• We foster a dynamic, collaborative, and inclusive remote work culture.
• This position is fully remote and can be based anywhere in South Africa , with primary oversight relevant to various regulatory frameworks.