Our client based in Pretoria is looking for a Lead Legal Counsel the candidate must have an LLB degree (NQF 8) or an equivalent appropriate legal qualification; be an admitted Attorney, Advocate or corporate lawyer within a corporate or investment banking legal environment or a reputable banking/finance legal. Detailed description The successful candidate will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following key performance areas: Proactively identify, address and manage potential legal risks within the Company Group, including the PA. Conduct and integrate legal research. Take responsibility for monitoring and reviewing local and international legislation, regulation and policies that have an impact on the mandate of the COMPANY Group, including the PA, and advise senior management on any developments. Steer legal processes for internal clients on complex legal challenges and disputes affecting their operations. Provide legal advice and opinions to the COMPANY Group, including the PA. Participate in negotiations to draft and conclude agreements on relevant positions, policies, principles, litigation matters and regulatory action matters, in consultation with senior management in the Legal Services Department. Draft legislation and review drafts of new legislation to address specific concerns of the Company Group, including the PA. Lead special projects to ensure that mandated and informed positions are developed and presented to stakeholders. Manage litigation affecting the Company Group, including the PA, in conjunction with external counsel. Conduct research into a wide range of matters, including legislative, regulatory and policy frameworks that have an impact on the Company Group, including the PA. Take responsibility for addressing issues pertaining to relevant legislation applicable to the Company Group, including the PA. Represent the Legal Services Department and the Company Group, including the PA, on national, regional and international committees. Report on the above-mentioned committees. Provide guidance, advice and legal opinions to the above-mentioned committees. Review and draft policies relevant to the Company Group, including the PA. Institutionalise processes to enhance efficiencies within the Company Group, including the PA. Mentor and develop legal counsel. Job requirements To be considered for this position, candidates must: have an LLB degree (NQF 8) or an equivalent appropriate legal qualification; be an admitted Attorney, Advocate or corporate lawyer within a corporate or investment banking legal environment or a reputable banking/finance legal practice; and have at least 8?10 years of experience as a practising Attorney, Advocate or in-house legal counsel. The following would be an added advantage: an LLM; experience in banking, insurance and/or financial market infrastructure regulation; experience in company law, insolvency and/or mergers and acquisitions; a solid record in leading and closing complex projects; and/or exposure to financial markets, financial technology (fintech), exchange control and/or payment systems. Additional requirements include: assertiveness; problem-solving skills and analysis; good verbal and written communication skills; judgement and decision-making skills; listening skills; presentation skills; relationship management; being a self-starter; attention to detail; driving execution; organisational awareness; and project management skills.