Legal Advisor – Discovery | Sales & Distribution | Sandton, Gauteng | High-Paying Legal Jobs in South Africa
Company: Discovery
Location: Sandton, Gauteng
Business Unit: Sales & Distribution
Function: Legal Affairs
Date Posted: 15 May 2025
Contract Type: Permanent
Application Closing Date: 31 May 2025
About Discovery
Discovery is one of South Africa’s most innovative and purpose-driven companies, committed to making people healthier and enhancing their lives. With a reputation for disruptive innovation in the financial services and health sectors, Discovery thrives in a fast-paced, high-performance environment that empowers individuals to do their best work. The company’s values align with those of integrity, excellence, and societal impact, offering careers that truly matter.
Role Overview: Legal Advisor – Sales & Distribution
Discovery is seeking a qualified Legal Advisor to join its Sales & Distribution unit in Sandton. This role provides strategic legal support and risk mitigation across multiple business areas, ensuring contracts, complaints, and disputes are handled with efficiency and in accordance with the law. The Legal Advisor will collaborate with external legal panels, draft and review contracts, ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks, and manage legal risks to protect the interests of the business.
If you are experienced in financial services law, confident in contract negotiation and drafting, and driven to make an impact in a legal advisory capacity, this role offers an exceptional opportunity to grow your career in a market-leading company.
Key Responsibilities
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Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of legal agreements and contracts related to sales and distribution activities
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Act as a key liaison with external legal counsel, providing instructions and monitoring progress on legal matters
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Handle the resolution of client complaints and legal disputes in a professional, compliant, and timely manner
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Monitor and enforce adherence to key legislation including POPIA, FAIS, FICA, NCA, and the Long-Term Insurance Act
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Conduct legal research and provide advice to various internal departments on regulatory compliance
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Implement and manage legal risk strategies and operational plans to mitigate exposure
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Collaborate with business leaders to provide sound legal guidance aligned with strategic objectives
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Remain impartial and objective when resolving sensitive or contentious legal matters
Education, Experience and Knowledge Required
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LLB or BCom Law degree (essential)
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Minimum 5 years’ experience in the Financial Services sector
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At least 5 years’ experience drafting and negotiating contracts
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Solid experience in complaint resolution and managing legal risk in a high-pressure environment
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Sound understanding of regulatory frameworks governing financial services in South Africa
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Experience working in cross-functional teams within large organizations
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Ability to interpret legislation and apply it to operational practices
Key Competencies and Personal Attributes
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High integrity and strong ethical standards
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Ability to remain impartial and make reasoned judgments
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Strong written and verbal communication skills
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Resilient and able to manage conflict and high-stress situations
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Strategic thinking and strong planning capabilities
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Persuasive and confident in presenting legal recommendations
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Adaptable, responsible, and capable of working independently
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Excellent stakeholder engagement and interpersonal skills
Challenging Aspects of the Role
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Managing legal disputes involving emotional and difficult interactions
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Ensuring compliance within dynamic, evolving operational environments
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Handling multiple high-stakes cases with tight turnaround times
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Balancing internal stakeholder needs with legal obligations and external risk
What Discovery Offers
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A challenging and rewarding work environment at a world-class organization
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Exposure to legal issues in a cutting-edge, innovation-led company
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Opportunities for career growth and development across legal and compliance functions
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A strong organizational culture built on trust, excellence, and impact
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Competitive compensation and benefits tailored to legal professionals
Employment Equity Statement
Discovery is an Equal Opportunities employer. The company’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered during the recruitment process. We actively welcome applicants with disabilities to apply for this position.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates are invited to submit their applications via the Discovery careers portal before the closing date. Reference: Legal Advisor – Sales & Distribution, Sandton.
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