About the Role
Our client, a global leader in digital services, is seeking a highly skilled Remote Legal Specialist focusing on Data Privacy and Compliance. This crucial role will ensure the company's operations meet stringent data protection regulations, including POPIA and GDPR, across all jurisdictions. Based entirely remotely, you will work with various departments to develop and implement data privacy policies, conduct privacy impact assessments, and manage data breach responses. This is an exceptional opportunity for a privacy-focused legal professional to work from anywhere in South Africa and shape the data governance framework of a major technology firm. The role requires a deep understanding of data protection laws, a proactive approach to risk management, and excellent communication skills to effectively advise stakeholders at all levels. You will be at the forefront of ensuring ethical and legal data handling practices.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive data privacy policies and procedures aligned with POPIA, GDPR, and other relevant regulations.
- Conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) for new projects and technologies.
- Advise business teams on data processing activities, consent management, and data subject rights.
- Manage and coordinate responses to data breaches, including notifications to regulatory authorities and affected individuals.
- Review and advise on data processing agreements (DPAs) and third-party vendor contracts involving personal data.
- Conduct internal audits and training sessions on data privacy best practices.
- Stay abreast of evolving data protection laws and regulatory guidance.
- Liaise with data protection authorities and represent the company in privacy-related inquiries.
- Collaborate with IT and security teams to ensure technical and organizational measures are in place for data protection.
- Provide legal counsel on cross-border data transfers and international data privacy compliance.
Requirements
- LLB degree or equivalent legal qualification.
- Admitted as an Attorney or Advocate.
- Minimum of 7 years of legal experience, with a substantial focus on data privacy, data protection, and compliance.
- In-depth knowledge of POPIA, GDPR, and other international data privacy frameworks.
- Proven experience in conducting DPIAs and managing data breaches.
- Familiarity with IT security principles and practices relating to data protection.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and risk assessment skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex privacy concepts clearly.
- Demonstrated ability to work autonomously and manage workload effectively in a remote setting.
- Relevant certifications such as CIPP/E, CIPP/US, or CIPM are a strong advantage.
Benefits
- Highly competitive salary and bonus structure.
- Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.
- Fully remote working environment, offering significant flexibility.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning in the rapidly evolving field of data privacy.
- Direct impact on the company's compliance and risk management framework.
- Supportive team and dynamic organizational culture.