Group General Counsel

The Takealot Group is seeking a highly experienced and strategic legal professional to step into the pivotal role of Group General Counsel. This position will be based at their Cape Town offices and is integral to guiding the company's legal and regulatory framework amidst its rapid expansion. The successful candidate will be at the forefront of ensuring that Takealot’s extensive operations, policies, and day-to-day procedures align seamlessly with all relevant South African laws and regulations.

About the Role

As the Group General Counsel, you will serve as a crucial, pragmatic advisor to senior leadership. Your mandate extends beyond mere compliance; you will be expected to offer astute strategic legal counsel, proactively identifying and mitigating risks, and safeguarding the Group’s commercial interests. A significant aspect of this role involves staying abreast of and contributing to the evolving South African regulatory landscape, particularly as it pertains to the digital economy, and leveraging this knowledge to help unlock its full potential for Takealot.

The responsibilities of the Group General Counsel are broad and impactful, covering all facets of legal and regulatory oversight. Key duties include:

• Ensuring comprehensive adherence to all applicable laws across all business operations, policies, and procedures.
• Providing trusted, strategic legal advice to senior management to effectively manage risks and protect the Group’s assets and reputation.
• Offering informed perspectives on the development of the South African regulatory environment to foster growth within the digital economy.
• Leading and mentoring the legal team, fostering an agile, collaborative, and responsive working environment.
• Overseeing the creation and implementation of internal compliance programmes designed to support and enable the company's dynamic growth trajectory.

What They're Looking For

Takealot is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all suitably qualified individuals. To be considered for this senior position, candidates will need to demonstrate a robust legal background and a strategic mindset. Essential qualifications and experience include:

• An LLB degree from a recognised South African university.
• Admission as an attorney or an advocate in South Africa.
• A minimum of 10 years of post-admission legal experience.
• At least 3 years of experience in a senior legal leadership capacity, with a preference for experience within the eCommerce or technology sectors.
• A deep understanding of South African laws and regulations pertinent to eCommerce.
• Proven expertise in contract negotiation, litigation management, and dispute resolution.
• Strong leadership qualities and the ability to effectively manage a legal team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, enabling clear and persuasive engagement with stakeholders at all levels.
• The capacity to thrive and perform effectively within a fast-paced, dynamic business environment.
• Unquestionable ethical standards and a high degree of integrity.

This role offers a significant opportunity for a seasoned legal professional to shape the legal strategy of a leading South African online retailer. The successful candidate will play a critical part in navigating complex legal challenges and contributing to Takealot's continued success and innovation in the digital space.

In South Africa, senior legal counsel roles within large corporations typically command competitive remuneration packages, often including performance-based bonuses and other benefits. Major e-commerce players, technology firms, and established retail groups are common employers for such positions. For a Group General Counsel with extensive experience, career progression could lead to executive board positions or broader regional legal leadership roles.

• LLB degree from a recognized South African university
• Admission as an attorney in South Africa, alternatively a practicing advocate
• Minimum of 10 years legal experience, with at least 3 years in a senior legal role, preferably in the eCommerce or Technology sector
• In-depth knowledge of South African laws and regulations relevant to eCommerce
• Proven experience in contract negotiation, litigation, and dispute resolution
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment
• High ethical standards and integrity