Remote Senior Legal Counsel - Data Privacy & Compliance

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a global technology services leader in recruiting a Remote Senior Legal Counsel to lead data privacy and compliance across the African region. The role requires Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with 6+ years post-admission, plus deep knowledge of POPIA and GDPR to advise on cross-border transfers and DPIAs.

You will collaborate with IT, security, and business units to implement privacy-by-design programs, train staff, and respond to data breaches in a

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney with 6+ years post-admission experience.
• Specialized expertise in data privacy law, POPIA and GDPR.
• Proven track record developing privacy programs and compliance.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and risk assessment skills.
• Excellent communication and ability to work remotely.
• CIPP/E or equivalent privacy certification is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage data privacy programs and policies.
• Advise on POPIA, GDPR and global privacy regulations.
• Conduct DPIAs/PIAs and manage data breach response.
• Provide training on data privacy best practices.
• Review DPAs, vendor contracts, and cross-border transfers.
• Collaborate with IT and Security to embed privacy-by-design.

Skills

Data privacy law

Risk assessment

Legal analysis

Communication

Independent work

Education

Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a global leader in technology services, seeking a highly motivated and experienced Remote Senior Legal Counsel to spearhead its data privacy and compliance initiatives across the African region. This is a fully remote position, offering unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to work from anywhere. You will be responsible for advising on all aspects of data protection laws, including POPIA and international regulations like GDPR, ensuring the company's operations are fully compliant. This role requires a proactive individual with a deep understanding of privacy legislation and its practical application in a fast-paced, international business environment. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including IT, security, and business units, to develop and implement robust privacy frameworks and policies, safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining customer trust in Port Elizabeth and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive data privacy and protection programs and policies across the organization.
• Advise on compliance with POPIA, GDPR, and other relevant data protection laws and regulations globally.
• Conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) and Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs).
• Manage data breach incident response and reporting procedures.
• Provide training and guidance to employees on data privacy best practices.
• Review and advise on data processing agreements, vendor contracts, and cross-border data transfers.
• Stay current with evolving privacy laws, regulatory guidance, and enforcement actions.
• Collaborate with IT and Security teams to ensure privacy-by-design principles are integrated into systems and processes.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa or equivalent qualification with a minimum of 6 years of post-admission experience.
• Specialized expertise in data privacy law, including extensive knowledge of POPIA and GDPR.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing privacy compliance programs.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and risk assessment skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a remote setting.
• CIPP/E or equivalent privacy certification is a significant advantage.
• Experience in the technology sector is preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package and a comprehensive benefits program, all delivered within a fully remote work structure.
• This role provides excellent opportunities for professional growth and specialization in the critical field of data privacy.
• Employees benefit from a flexible work schedule, empowering them to achieve work-life balance.
• Access to cutting-edge training and resources to stay ahead in privacy law.
• Join a forward-thinking company and make a significant impact from anywhere, contributing to robust data protection practices globally.