Legal & Compliance Officer

Job Title: Legal & Compliance Officer Department: Legal & Compliance Reports To: Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer / Finance Director Location: Gauteng

Job Purpose

The Legal & Compliance Officer is responsible for ensuring that the company operates in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, policies, and ethical standards. The role provides legal support to management, assists with risk management, reviews contracts, ensures regulatory compliance, and promotes a culture of compliance throughout the organization.

Key ResponsibilitiesLegal Compliance

• Monitor and ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards.
• Develop, implement, and maintain compliance policies and procedures.
• Conduct regular compliance reviews and risk assessments.
• Identify potential legal and compliance risks and recommend corrective actions.
• Maintain compliance registers and records.

Contract Management

• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, agreements, and legal documents.
• Ensure all company contracts comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor contract expiry dates and renewal requirements.
• Maintain a centralized contract management system.

Regulatory and Corporate Compliance

• Ensure compliance with company legislation, labour laws, and applicable regulations.
• Monitor changes in legislation and advise management on their impact.
• Assist with statutory filings, licenses, permits, and regulatory submissions.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities when required.

Policy Development and Governance

• Draft, review, and update company policies and procedures.
• Promote adherence to internal policies and corporate governance standards.
• Conduct compliance audits and recommend improvements.
• Assist in implementing compliance programs across the business.

Risk Management

• Identify legal and regulatory risks affecting the business.
• Assist in developing risk mitigation strategies.
• Investigate compliance breaches and recommend corrective actions.
• Maintain records of compliance incidents and resolutions.

Training and Awareness

• Conduct compliance and legal awareness training for employees.
• Educate staff on company policies, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Support management in fostering a culture of compliance and accountability.

Dispute Resolution and Legal Support

• Assist in handling legal disputes, disciplinary matters, and litigation processes.
• Coordinate with external legal advisors and attorneys when required.
• Prepare legal correspondence and documentation.
• Provide legal advice and guidance to management on operational matters.

Reporting and Administration

• Prepare compliance reports for management.
• Maintain accurate legal and compliance records.
• Monitor compliance performance and report findings.
• Ensure confidentiality of all legal and compliance information.

Minimum Requirements

Education

• Bachelor's Degree or Diploma in Law (LLB), Compliance Management, Risk Management, Corporate Governance, or a related field.
• Compliance-related certifications will be advantageous.

Experience

• Minimum 3 years' experience in a legal, compliance, risk management, or corporate governance role.
• Experience in contract management and regulatory compliance.
• Experience in labour law and corporate compliance will be advantageous.
• Experience within wholesale, retail, distribution, or commercial environments will be beneficial.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong knowledge of South African labour laws and business regulations.
• Understanding of compliance frameworks and corporate governance principles.
• Excellent contract drafting and review skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent report-writing and documentation skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise professional judgment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.

Work Location: In person