Executive Head: Legal and Company Secretariat

Role Title: Executive Head: Legal & Company Secretariat

Client Summary:

Our client is a prominent and respected banking financial institution, deeply embedded in the economic landscape. They are committed to driving growth and innovation within the banking sector, offering a dynamic and strategic environment for their leadership team. With a strong focus on robust governance and ethical practices, they are a key player dedicated to safeguarding stakeholder interests and delivering exceptional financial services.

Job Description:

Embark on a pivotal leadership journey as our client's Executive Head of Legal & Company Secretariat. This is a strategic executive role where you will be instrumental in shaping the legal and governance framework of a leading financial organization. You will provide high-level strategic guidance, expert legal counsel, and oversee critical company secretarial functions. This is an unparalleled opportunity to influence the bank's direction, manage significant legal risks, and ensure unwavering compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements. If you are a visionary leader with a profound understanding of corporate law and governance, eager to make a tangible impact in a complex and rewarding environment, this role is for you.

Responsibilities:

*   Provide strategic legal counsel and support to the Board, senior management, and business units, ensuring effective and efficient legal services.

*   Analyze and interpret complex legal and regulatory risks affecting the bank's operations and proactively develop mitigation strategies.

*   Draft, review, and approve contracts, agreements, and other legal documents to safeguard the bank's interests.

*   Stay abreast of evolving laws, regulations, and industry developments, advising the bank on potential impacts and strategic responses.

*   Develop and implement robust legal strategies and policies aligned with the organization's objectives.

*   Oversee and manage the bank's Intellectual Property portfolio.

*   Lead and manage legal disputes, litigation, and regulatory investigations, coordinating with external counsel where necessary.

*   Ensure strict adherence to corporate governance principles and legal compliance across the entire organization.

*   Spearhead the company secretarial function, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and corporate governance standards.

*   Prepare for and manage board and committee meetings, including agenda setting, minute-taking, and resolution management.

*   Maintain accurate statutory records, registers, and filings as mandated by law and regulatory authorities.

*   Advise the board of directors and senior management on corporate governance matters and best practices.

*   Coordinate the appointment, induction, and training of board members, fostering effective communication between the board and management.

*   Monitor and interpret banking and financial regulations, ensuring comprehensive compliance.

*   Develop and implement policies, procedures, and internal controls to mitigate legal and regulatory risks.

*   Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure proper implementation and adherence to compliance standards.

*   Liaise with regulatory authorities, responding to inquiries, examinations, and audits.

*   Lead and manage a high-performing team, providing mentorship, guidance, and professional development opportunities.

*   Foster a culture of excellence, teamwork, and continuous improvement within the legal and secretarial functions.

*   Recruit and retain talented professionals to support the bank's strategic objectives.

Requirements:

Must-Haves:

*   Postgraduate Diploma and Professional Registration / NQF Level 8.

*   Admitted Attorney with the Law Society of South Africa (LSSA).

*   Up to 12 years of progressive experience in Legal and Company Secretarial leadership roles within the financial services sector.

*   Demonstrated experience in leading and managing teams.

*   Proven track record in risk and compliance management within a legal context.

*   Extensive experience in executive leadership within support services.

*   Expertise in providing strategic legal advice and guidance to senior management and boards.

*   Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to tackle complex, strategic issues affecting multiple business areas.

*   Exceptional communication skills, including high-level written proposals and presentations to boards and key external stakeholders.

*   Experience in drafting and amending contracts and legal documents.

*   Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate self and others, fostering a high-performance culture.

*   Strategic thinking capabilities, with the ability to see the "big picture" and shape the future.

*   Proven ability to act with conviction and courage, upholding moral, ethical, and professional standards.

*   Strong customer-centric approach, building relationships that secure commitment and trust.

*   Experience in managing significant financial risk and making decisions as part of a board or senior management team.