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General Counsel Job Available

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Reference: JHB004228-GanM-1

POSITION:                  GENERAL COUNSEL     

Duties & Responsibilities

Role Summary:
 
To determine the strategy for the Legal Department and the Human Capital Department. Provide input into strategic direction of the OUR CLIENT and its Subsidiaries as well provide leadership in the development for the continuous evaluation of short and long-term strategic objectives.

The General Counsel plays a significant role in developing relationships with key external third parties and assisting with raising third party funds for the organisation. Work with departmental leadership and key stakeholders across the business in overseeing and ensuring legal compliance across the business, maintaining the business’s integrity both internally and externally (reputational risk).
 
Outputs:
 
Legal Department  
Oversee the provision of high-quality legal counsel to fund management division and to other support departments
Ensure turnaround times from approval to disbursement are met 


Manage clients in litigation and maximise collections from litigation and collection processes. 
Manage the legal budget and maximise impact from expenditure
Operational Support  
To fulfil the role of Chairperson on internal committees as decided in terms of the Delegation of Authority Matrix
Ensure that legal support is provided to the portfolio departments


Act as an expert in providing guidance and support with restructures and turnarounds
To be an expert and well acquainted with various laws including BBBEE laws, FAIS, FICA and the PFMA
assist in management and monitoring of distressed clients working with relevant divisions
Develop portfolio reporting framework for litigation matters and report to the relevant forums


Oversee legal compliance matters and provide guidance to the legal compliance team
Assist the Marketing and Communications department with approval of assigned matters


To be abreast of relevant legal developments and ensure that all relevant developments affecting OUR CLIENT as brought to the attention of the Executive Committee and other relevant structures 


Human Capital Department  
Oversee the management of the Human Capital Department
Develop/update the Human Capital Strategy
Ensure that the Human Capital strategy is aligned to the organisation’s strategy
Ensure that the Human Capital department provides an enabling environment for employees


Champion the employee needs at a strategic level 
Responsible to ensure that the organisation is optimally resourced subject to available resources
Oversee the activities of the Human Capital and Remuneration Committee 
Oversee that there are up to date processes to manage performance and disciplinary matters and oversee all matters which fall within those aspects
Executive Role 
The General Counsel is a member of the Executive Committee and must participate competently on all activities involving the Executive


Invitee to Board meetings and board subcommittee meetings
The incumbent must establish a working relationship with the DTIC CFO and GCFO as well as other key DFI stakeholders
Perform tasks as assigned by the CEO
People Management 
Performance contracts of all divisional staff by deadline 
Conduct performance reviews of all staff based on timelines
Provide leadership to the division
Ensure optimal and strategic resourcing including proper succession planning.
Ad Hoc 

  • Deal with complaints and parliamentary queries/ assist in responding to queries
  • Resolve all audit findings for units timeously

Experience / Skills Required:
 
Minimum 10 years relevant experience
Experience in successfully handling commercial law matters, litigation matters, human resources matter, compliance and regulatory matters
High level of integrity and dependability with a strong sense of urgency and results-orientation


Ability to strategize and solve problems
Strong leadership and organizational skills
Proven and successful experience creating departmental priorities that align strategic direction of the legal department and the overall business objectives 
Successful experience leading negotiations on complex, high value, contracts, and agreements

Qualification Requirements:
 
LLB Degree or relevant degree
Master’s degree an advantage
Admitted attorney

Personal Attributes/Behaviours/Attitudes:
 
Cognitive Competencies 
Ability to manage stakeholders
Able to work under pressure
Understanding of and ability to follow procedures 
Able to challenge matters if there are concerns with regulatory or policy issues 
Able to interrogate information and raise/escalate for further attention where necessary

Intrapersonal Competencies 
Excellence/ Quality Orientation
Ethical Judgement
Resilience and Stress Management
Drive and Results Orientation
Time and Self-Management  
Self-starter and independent worker
Visibility in office environment
Agility and able to assume additional responsibilities
 
Interpersonal Competencies 
Building Relationships
Interpersonal Agility
Teamwork
 
Communication Competencies 
Verbal and Written Communication

Functional Competencies 
Commercial and Financial Acumen
Research Competence
Organisational Awareness
Process and Technological Competence
Mathematical Acumen

Become a General Counsel: Your Ultimate Guide

The role of a General Counsel (GC) is becoming increasingly vital in the corporate world. As businesses face more complex legal challenges, the GC’s position has evolved into a crucial business partner who helps navigate the tricky waters of compliance and governance.

This guide will explore the responsibilities, skills, career paths, and the overall importance of the General Counsel role.

The Evolving Role of the General Counsel

The Rise of the GC as a Business Partner

No longer is the General Counsel confined to the back office, handling just legal matters. Today, GCs play a strategic role in business decision-making. They work alongside executives to ensure that legal risks are managed while pushing for the company’s growth. This shift has made GCs essential to the leadership team.

Key Responsibilities and Challenges Facing Modern GCs

General Counsels are navigating a complex environment filled with rapid regulatory changes, technology shifts, and global challenges. They must balance legal expertise with business savvy to provide effective guidance. Key responsibilities include:

  • Advising on compliance and risk management.
  • Overseeing corporate governance.
  • Managing disputes and litigation.

Why Aspiring Lawyers Should Consider this Career Path

For law graduates, becoming a GC offers a unique opportunity. It combines legal skills with business management. The role provides variety, making it an appealing career choice for those interested in both law and business strategy.

Key Responsibilities and Duties of a General Counsel

The day-to-day duties of a General Counsel can be diverse. Key areas of responsibility typically include:

Implementing Effective Compliance Programs

A GC must establish and maintain compliance programs to follow laws and industry standards. This reduces risk and protects the organization.

Developing and Enforcing Internal Policies

Creating clear policies helps staff understand legal requirements. Enforcing these policies is crucial for maintaining compliance.

Contract Negotiation and Review

High-Stakes Deal Structuring and Negotiation

GCs often lead negotiations for major contracts. This involves understanding the business needs and protecting the company’s interests.

Managing Vendor and Partner Agreements

Effective management of vendor contracts strengthens relationships and ensures compliance with legal standards.

Staying updated on changes in laws ensures the company operates within legal bounds. GCs often monitor legislative developments closely.

Keeping thorough documentation is essential for transparency and accountability, especially in potential legal disputes.

Essential Skills and Qualifications for General Counsel

To excel as a General Counsel, specific skills and qualifications are necessary.

Specific Industry Knowledge and Experience

GCs should have in-depth knowledge of the industry they work in. This knowledge helps in understanding specific legal challenges.

Demonstrated Success in Litigation and Dispute Resolution

Experience in handling disputes showcases a GC’s ability to protect the company’s interests effectively.

Business Acumen and Strategic Thinking

Financial Literacy and Budgeting Skills

Understanding the financial aspects of the business is vital. GCs often manage budgets for their departments.

Leadership and Team Management Capabilities

Leading a legal team requires the ability to mentor others and foster a collaborative environment.

Career Path and Advancement Opportunities for GCs

The journey to General Counsel involves several steps.

Education and Professional Development Requirements

Additional certifications can enhance a GC’s qualifications. Continuous education keeps skills sharp and updated.

Networking and Building Professional Relationships

Building a network is essential for career advancement. Relationships can open doors to new opportunities.

Transitioning to a General Counsel Position

Most GCs start in junior legal roles and gradually take on more responsibilities to reach the C-suite.

Lateral Moves into General Counsel Roles

Some lawyers may transition from other organizations or industries, bringing unique perspectives to their new position.

The General Counsel’s Role in Corporate Governance

General Counsel involvement in governance is crucial for maintaining company integrity.

Implementing Robust Internal Controls

Strong internal controls help prevent legal issues. GCs must ensure these systems are in place and followed.

Advising on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Initiatives

GCs play a role in shaping CSR policies, aligning legal practices with ethical standards.

Risk Assessment and Board Reporting

Presenting to the Board of Directors

Regular updates to the board about legal risks and compliance issues are essential for informed decision-making.

GCs keep stakeholders aware of changes in laws that may affect the organization.

Conclusion: The Future of the General Counsel Role

The role of General Counsel continues to grow in importance. As regulations and risks evolve, so too must the strategies employed by GCs. The ability to adapt is critical in ensuring the organization thrives.

Key Takeaways and Actionable Insights

  • Understand that the GC role is strategic and multifaceted.
  • Focus on developing both legal and business skills.
  • Build a strong professional network to support career growth.

Resources for Aspiring and Current GCs

  • Professional organizations like the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC).
  • Online courses in compliance and corporate governance.
  • Networking events to connect with industry leaders.

This guide serves as a valuable resource for those looking to navigate the intricate path to becoming a successful General Counsel. Each step you take adds to your skills and prepares you for the challenges ahead.

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