Data Compliance Specialist

Takealot Group, one of South Africa’s most prominent e-commerce entities, is expanding its internal governance team and is currently recruiting a Data Compliance Specialist based in Cape Town. This position is suited for a meticulous professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and understands the critical intersection of data privacy, regulatory adherence, and customer experience.

About the role

In an era where data protection is a cornerstone of digital trust, the Data Compliance Specialist plays a vital role in upholding the organisation’s reputation. You will be at the front line of handling data subject requests, ensuring that the company remains fully compliant with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPI) and other relevant data regulations. This is a role for someone who is not just a processor of information, but a proactive contributor to process improvement.

The team culture is described as dynamic and hyper-growth oriented. As such, the ideal candidate will need to be adaptable, comfortable with constant change, and capable of operating with a high level of integrity. You will be working across various brands within the Takealot Group, necessitating strong communication skills and the ability to bridge the gap between technical data requirements and operational business processes.

What you’ll do

Your daily schedule will involve managing complex workflows related to personal data. You will be the primary point of contact for requests, ensuring that every query is tracked, managed, and resolved within established service level agreements (SLAs).

Core responsibilities will include:

• Managing incoming data subject requests through multiple channels and platforms.
• Conducting eligibility assessments to ensure all requests are validated before processing.
• Collaborating with internal stakeholders to track request statuses and resolve roadblocks.
• Performing regular internal audits on compliance practices, standard operating procedures, and policies.
• Supporting the Information Officer by reviewing and identifying sensitive information.
• Identifying and reporting on regulatory risks to management.
• Proposing and implementing innovative ideas to streamline data handling systems and improve overall efficiency across the Group.

What they’re looking for

To succeed in this role, you should have a solid foundation in data administration and a strong grasp of compliance procedures. The company values candidates who have a blend of technical capability and an analytical mindset.

• **Education and Experience:** A Senior Certificate is the minimum educational requirement, complemented by at least two years of proven experience in a similar specialist or compliance-focused role.
• **Technical Proficiency:** You must be comfortable working with Excel and have experience using SQL. Familiarity with ticketing platforms like Zendesk is essential for managing the volume of requests.
• **Domain Knowledge:** Previous experience working within the e-commerce, tech start-up, or digital platform sectors is highly advantageous.
• **Soft Skills:** You should be proficient in complaints handling, demonstrating patience and professionalism when interacting with users or internal staff regarding data privacy.

In the South African retail and e-commerce landscape, compliance roles have become increasingly critical as local companies scale their digital footprint. Professionals in this space typically find that this role offers an excellent trajectory toward senior compliance management or Information Officer support roles. Working for a large-scale e-commerce group provides exposure to high-volume data environments, which is highly sought after by recruiters. Applicants should note that the company is committed to transformation and prioritises candidates from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.

• Senior Certificate or Higher
• Minimum 2 years of strong experience in a specialist role
• Excel, SQL, Zendesk experience
• Experience in e-commerce, start-up, tech, or platform environment
• Complaints handling