Head of Legal

SUMMARY:

Head of Legal

POSITION INFO:
A highly respected and successful company is looking to hire a Head of Legal to join its dynamic, fast-growing team. This is a rare opportunity for a commercially minded legal executive to play a critical role across the group and its underlying portfolio businesses.
The primary base is in Cape Town, with occasional travel to Johannesburg. Reporting directly to the CEO, the successful candidate will gain exposure to complex commercial transactions, strategic growth initiatives, mergers and acquisitions, and high-level decision-making, while working closely with a small and entrepreneurial executive team.
The company is known for exceptional performance, uncompromising integrity, and ethical business practices, offering an environment where an ambitious legal mind can make a measurable impact and enjoy significant long-term growth.


Minimum requirements:

• Minimum 3+ years post-articles experience, ideally gained at a leading law firm, corporate environment, investment house, or audit firm.
• Experience in M&A and commercial contracts is essential.
• Solid understanding of corporate, commercial, and financial aspects of transactions.
• Methodical and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage complexity.
• Outstanding presentation, reporting, and communication skills.
• Strong commercial acumen and ability to think strategically.
• Proficient in MS Office, particularly Word and PowerPoint at an advanced level.
• Ability to develop into the role of acting company secretary.

Key Responsibilities

• Initially act as company secretary for one of the group’s underlying businesses, supported by the executive team and external consultants.
• Draft, review, and amend legal agreements.
• Review draft agreements, liaise with external law firms, summarise contractual terms, identify risks, and recommend risk mitigation strategies.
• Engage with external legal counsel on transactional agreements and Competition Commission matters.
• Assist with the implementation of transactions.
• Support underlying businesses with compliance and regulatory documentation.
• Conduct legal due diligence on new opportunities and transactions.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders and investors.
• Contribute to commercial research, transaction analysis, and strategic decision-making.
• Prepare presentations, proposals, memorandums, and related documentation.
• Provide ongoing support to the CEO and executive team.

Desired Personal Attributes

• Strong critical thinking, attention to detail, and a high degree of accuracy.
• Eager to learn and grow into a broader legal leadership role.
• Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong values of honesty, integrity, and respect.
• Self-motivated, independent thinker with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Passionate about finding practical solutions and contributing strategically to the business.
• Excellent communication skills in English, with a reasonable command of Afrikaans.

Qualifications

• BCom LLB, BAcc LLB, or similar qualification.