Remote Senior Legal Advisor - Regulatory Compliance

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance

Professional development allowance

100% remote work

Flexible hours

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Legal Advisor to join a fully remote legal team. You will ensure compliance across jurisdictions, interpret evolving legislation, and implement robust frameworks for privacy and financial services regulation.

The role emphasizes proactive risk management, regulatory filings, and training across a dispersed team. A SA-qualified attorney with 6+ years in relevant fields is preferred.

Qualifications

• Admitted attorney with 6+ years in financial services regulation, data privacy, or corporate compliance.
• Strong ability to interpret and apply complex regulatory frameworks.
• Solid POPIA and GDPR knowledge are essential.
• Experience developing and implementing compliance programs.

Responsibilities

• Monitor evolving regulatory requirements across jurisdictions (financial services, data privacy, consumer protection).
• Develop, implement, and maintain compliance policies, procedures, and controls.
• Conduct risk assessments and audits to identify and mitigate risks.
• Advise business on legal and regulatory implications of new products and initiatives.
• Manage regulatory filings and reporting obligations in multiple jurisdictions.
• Act as a point of contact for regulatory authorities and inquiries.

Skills

Regulatory compliance

POPIA/GDPR

Legal advisory

Regulatory reporting

Education

Admitted Attorney of the High Court of SA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing international FinTech company, is looking for a dedicated and expert Senior Legal Advisor with a strong focus on regulatory compliance to join their entirely remote legal team. This pivotal role will be crucial in ensuring that all our client's operations across various jurisdictions adhere strictly to relevant financial and data protection regulations. You will be at the forefront of navigating complex legal landscapes, interpreting new legislation, and implementing robust compliance frameworks. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa. We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented professional who can independently manage compliance initiatives and contribute to the strategic legal direction of a dynamic, technology-driven organization. Your expertise will be vital in safeguarding the company's reputation and ensuring its continued success in the global market.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and interpret evolving regulatory requirements in financial services, data privacy (e.g., POPIA, GDPR), and consumer protection across multiple jurisdictions.
• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive compliance policies, procedures, and controls.
• Conduct regular compliance risk assessments and audits to identify and mitigate potential risks.
• Advise business teams on the legal and regulatory implications of new products, services, and business initiatives.
• Manage regulatory filings and reporting obligations in various jurisdictions.
• Act as a key point of contact for regulatory authorities and respond to inquiries and investigations.
• Develop and deliver training programs on compliance and regulatory matters to relevant employees.
• Oversee the company's data protection strategy and ensure compliance with privacy laws.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging trends in legal and regulatory compliance.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with at least 6 years of experience, preferably in financial services regulation, data privacy, or corporate compliance.
• Demonstrated experience in interpreting and applying complex regulatory frameworks.
• Strong understanding of POPIA and/or GDPR is essential.
• Proven ability to develop and implement effective compliance programs.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly.
• Highly organized and self-motivated, with a strong ability to manage workload and deadlines effectively in a remote setting.
• Experience working in a technology or FinTech environment is highly desirable.
• Must be comfortable working independently and collaborating with a geographically dispersed team.
• This is a fully remote role, open to candidates residing anywhere in South Africa.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary package and the significant advantage of a 100% remote working environment. Our client provides a comprehensive benefits package, including private medical insurance and a generous allowance for professional development and training. You will have the opportunity to work with a forward-thinking, international team and contribute to the growth of a leading FinTech innovator. Additional benefits include flexible working hours and the opportunity to shape the compliance function of a rapidly expanding company. This role is ideal for a seasoned legal professional seeking autonomy and impact.