Senior Legal Counsel: Regulatory and Privacy – 1001 Absa Bank

Job Description

Overview

The organisation seeks a dedicated legal professional to formulate tactical strategies, drive delivery initiatives, and oversee the execution of governance and legal frameworks. In this capacity, the appointee will autonomously handle intricate regulatory and privacy matters, converting complex legal parameters into viable commercial operations. The function necessitates extensive practical proficiency in data protection legislation, alongside robust advisory capabilities and strong contract negotiation expertise.

Core Responsibilities

The appointee will deliver advanced legal counsel and specialized expertise concerning financial crime and data privacy regulations. Responsibilities include evaluating compliance evaluations, privacy impact assessments, emerging technologies, and operational strategies. The role entails issuing independent guidance regarding cross-border data transfers, information sharing, and retention protocols across the corporate group. Additionally, the practitioner will draft, scrutinize, and finalize data processing agreements, consent clauses, customer disclosures, and related documentation. The assignment involves steering commercial discussions, maintaining cost efficiencies regarding external counsel expenditures, and cultivating strategic partnerships with control functions such as Risk and Compliance. Furthermore, the incumbent will represent the institution at governance forums, conduct professional training for internal stakeholders, monitor domestic and international regulatory shifts, and champion organization-wide adherence to legal governance policies.

Requirements

Candidates must possess a recognized legal qualification, specifically holding a Bachelor Honours Degree in Law, Military Science and Security, or a combination such as a BComm Law and LLB, BA Law and LLB, BJuris and LLB, or BProc and LLB. Applicants must be admitted attorneys qualified to practice within South Africa, ideally bringing between five and eight years of relevant post-qualification tenure. Essential prerequisites include substantial background in data protection and privacy law, complemented by practical competence in drafting and negotiating information-sharing agreements within highly regulated environments. Familiarity with financial services, market conduct, and multi-jurisdictional advisory work across Africa serves as a distinct advantage. Ideal candidates demonstrate advanced analytical aptitude, meticulous attention to detail, exceptional stakeholder communication abilities, and the capacity to balance commercial objectives with risk management requirements.

How to Apply

Submit your application through the employer’s application page: Apply now.

Closing date: 7 November 2026.