HEAD OF OFFICE (LEGAL)

SUMMARY:
Applications are invited from persons interested to fill the above-mentioned position. The incumbent will be appointed on a permanent basis. The position is based in Johannesburg.

KEY OUTPUTS

• Provide strong leadership to office staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Develop and implement strategies to achieve organizational objectives and enhance service delivery.
• Manage and mentor office staff, providing guidance and support to promote professional growth and development.
• Oversee the provision of high-quality legal services to clients, ensuring adherence to legal and ethical standards.
• Monitor and evaluate service delivery processes to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Foster a client-centric approach, prioritizing the needs and interests of clients in all aspects of office operations.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, government agencies, community organizations, and funders.
• Represent the organization in meetings, conferences, and public events, advocating for the interests of the office and its clients.
• Collaborate with external partners to leverage resources and support initiatives that benefit the community served by the office
• Oversee the management of the office budget, ensuring responsible allocation of resources to support service delivery objectives.
• Monitor financial performance and compliance with budgetary guidelines, identifying opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements.
• Prepare financial reports and forecasts for senior management and stakeholders, providing transparent and accurate information on the financial status of the office.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and organizational policies governing office operations.
• Implement risk management strategies to mitigate potential threats to the organization's reputation, financial stability, and legal standing.
• Conduct regular audits and assessments to identify compliance gaps and areas of vulnerability, taking proactive measures to address issues and prevent future problems.

POSITION INFO:
COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ATTRIBUTES) REQUIRED An LLB Degree or any equivalent and related legal qualifications at NQF level 8 Must be admitted as an Attorney or Advocate of the High Court of SA, in good standing. At least ten (10) years post admission experience as a legal practitioner in practice, of which five (5) years must be at Court \/ Legal Management experience Extensive experience and knowledge of court processes, such as Magistrate Court, High Court, Supreme Court of Appeal, Land Court and Labour Courts and the Constitutional Court. Demonstrated ability to train Candidate Attorneys. Excellent leadership and people development skills with a track record in training Candidate Attorneys and newly appointed legal practitioners. Experience in budget preparation and management thereof. Advanced computer skills (Excel, Word and Outlook) an advantage. Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, program management, and team leadership. Strong understanding of legal principles, ethics, and standards of practice relevant to the organization's mission. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders and represent the organization professionally. Proven ability to manage budgets, allocate resources, and make sound financial decisions. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify issues, develop solutions, and drive results. Commitment to social justice, equality, and the empowerment of marginalized communities.