Senior Legal Advisor

Job Title: Legal Advisor

Location: 2 Lascelles Road, Meadowbrook, Edenvale

Hours: 08:00 - 17:00 weekdays

Reporting to: Group Executive

About the Company

SMD Technologies is a leading distributor of consumer electronics and technology products operating across South Africa and international markets. We are committed to innovation, growth, and sound corporate governance. Our people are at the heart of our success, and we are looking for an experienced Legal Advisor to provide strategic legal guidance and support across the group.

Job Overview

The Legal Advisor will be responsible for managing a wide range of complex legal matters across the group, both locally and internationally. The successful candidate will possess a strong commercial legal background, excellent business acumen, and a practical approach to managing legal risk within a fast-paced multinational environment. This role requires the ability to provide strategic legal advice, oversee compliance initiatives, manage litigation matters, and support the business in achieving its commercial objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Contract Drafting, Review & Negotiation

Manage the full lifecycle of legal documents across the group.

Draft, review, negotiate, and advise on commercial agreements, including service level agreements, distribution agreements, joint venture agreements, profit share agreements, and sale agreements.

Prepare and review corporate documentation, including shareholders' agreements, Memoranda of Incorporation (MOIs), deeds of adherence, and company resolutions.

Draft and review lease agreements, loan agreements, pledge and cession agreements, guarantees, and suretyships.

Manage intellectual property and confidentiality matters, including non-disclosure agreements, non-circumvention agreements, and trademark-related matters.

Review and update company policies, terms and conditions, and other internal compliance documentation.

Legal Risk Management

Identify, assess, and mitigate legal risks across the business.

Provide practical legal guidance to support business decision-making.

Develop and implement risk management strategies and controls.

Litigation Management

Manage and oversee litigation and dispute resolution processes.

Liaise with external legal counsel and other professional advisors.

Monitor litigation matters and provide regular updates to management.

Regulatory Compliance & Advisory

Provide legal advice and formal opinions relating to the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), National Credit Act (NCA), Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), Companies Act, and Competition Act.

Monitor legislative and regulatory developments and advise the business on potential impacts.

Support compliance initiatives and ensure adherence to applicable laws and regulations.

Legal Research & Stakeholder Engagement

Conduct legal research and prepare reports, legal opinions, and recommendations.

Provide legal support to management and business units on strategic and operational matters.

Collaborate with internal departments and external stakeholders to support business objectives.

Build strong working relationships across the organisation and with external advisors.

Requirements

Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.

Strong drafting, negotiation, and contract management skills.

Excellent understanding of South African commercial law.

Knowledge of international legal frameworks and multinational business environments.

Experience in legal risk management, litigation, and regulatory compliance.

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

Strong analytical, organisational, and problem-solving abilities.

High attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple complex matters simultaneously.

Ability to work collaboratively across departments and jurisdictions.

Sound judgment and a proactive, solutions-oriented approach.

Education and Experience

Minimum of 5 years' post-admission legal experience.

Experience within a large law firm, corporate environment, or multinational organisation is preferred.

Proven experience drafting and negotiating complex commercial agreements.

Experience providing legal advice across multiple business functions and jurisdictions.

Key Competencies

Strong commercial and business acumen.

Excellent stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.

Ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines effectively.

High level of professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality.

Strong decision-making and strategic thinking capabilities.

Salary range: Between R540 000pa - R660 000pa (not taking into consideration performance-based bonus)

SMD Technologies is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles of employment equity. In accordance with the Company's Employment Equity Plan and the requirements of the Employment Equity Act, preference may be given to suitably qualified candidates from designated groups. Applications from persons with disabilities are encouraged.