Remote Legal Counsel - Technology & Innovation

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

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a forward-thinking Legal Counsel specializing in technology, IP, and data privacy to join its fully remote legal team. You will advise on software licensing, development agreements, IP protection, and regulatory compliance for POPIA and GDPR while supporting innovation across cutting-edge projects.

The ideal candidate will have an LLB, SA admission, at least 6 years in tech law, and proven experience with SaaS and licensing agreements, plus strong communication and

Qualifications

• LLB or equivalent qualification.
• Admission as an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa or equivalent.
• Minimum 6 years of relevant legal experience focused on technology, IP and data privacy.
• Experience advising on SaaS, software development and licensing agreements.
• Strong written and verbal communication; remote/hybrid work experience.

Responsibilities

• Advise on IP matters including patents, trademarks, and copyrights.
• Draft, review and negotiate SaaS, software development, IP licenses, and DPAs.
• Ensure compliance with POPIA and GDPR; develop data protection policies.
• Provide guidance on AI and digital transformation initiatives.
• Manage and resolve technology/IP disputes and litigation.
• Conduct legal research and provide strategic tech-related advice.
• Collaborate with R&D, product, and IT in a remote setting.
• Support technology acquisitions and partnerships.

Skills

Technology law

IP law

Data privacy

Education

LLB degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a forward-thinking and highly skilled Legal Counsel with a specialization in technology, intellectual property, and data privacy to join their fully remote legal team. This position is designed for a legal professional who thrives in a distributed work environment and possesses a deep understanding of the legal challenges and opportunities presented by the technology sector. You will be instrumental in advising on matters ranging from software licensing and development agreements to intellectual property protection and compliance with data protection regulations like POPIA and GDPR. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to innovation and growth from anywhere, providing strategic legal support to our client's cutting-edge projects and operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise on intellectual property matters, including patent, trademark, and copyright protection and enforcement.
• Draft, review, and negotiate technology-related agreements such as SaaS agreements, software development agreements, IP licenses, and data processing agreements.
• Ensure compliance with data privacy laws (POPIA, GDPR, etc.) and assist in developing data protection policies and procedures.
• Provide legal guidance on emerging technologies, AI, and digital transformation initiatives.
• Manage and resolve legal disputes and litigation related to technology and IP.
• Conduct legal research and provide strategic advice on complex legal issues in the technology space.
• Collaborate effectively with internal teams, including R&D, product development, and IT, in a remote setting.
• Support the business in navigating the legal aspects of technology acquisitions and partnerships.

Requirements

• A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree or equivalent qualification.
• Admission as an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa or equivalent jurisdiction.
• A minimum of 6 years of relevant legal experience, with a strong emphasis on technology law, IP, and data privacy.
• Demonstrated experience advising on SaaS, software development, and licensing agreements.
• Solid understanding of POPIA, GDPR, and other relevant data protection regulations.
• Familiarity with patent and trademark prosecution and litigation is a plus.
• Exceptional ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly and concisely in writing and verbally.
• Proven track record of working effectively in a remote or hybrid legal team.
• Self-motivated, organized, and able to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

Benefits

• Fully remote work arrangement, offering flexibility and work-life balance.
• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Allowance for home office setup and internet connectivity.
• Comprehensive health benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development, including webinars and online courses.
• Direct impact on innovative projects and company strategy.