Head of Group Legal & Compliance - Automotive Retail Industry

About the role

We are seeking a senior Head of Group Legal & Compliance to lead the legal and compliance function for a fast‑growing automotive retail group based in Sandton, Johannesburg. Reporting directly to the Founder & CEO, you will act as the Group Company Secretary and ensure the organisation meets all statutory, regulatory and governance requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Serve as Group Company Secretary for the holding company, subsidiaries and joint ventures – manage board calendars, issue notices, compile packs, minute meetings and maintain minute books.
• Maintain CIPC compliance and keep Beneficial Ownership registers up to date across the corporate structure.
• Establish and operate the Group Legal & Compliance Office, bringing FIC/FICA/AML/goAML reporting under its remit.
• Define the Group’s POPIA posture and act as the Information Officer.
• Oversee FSCA/FAIS retail and consumer‑protection obligations.
• Draft, review and negotiate JV frameworks, shareholder agreements, OEM supply and dealer agreements, commercial leases and offers.
• Provide practical employment‑law counsel and manage legal and operational risk.
• Manage external counsel, engaging specialists only when necessary.
• Lead and develop the internal Legal & Compliance team.

Required profile

• Board‑credible senior legal professional with extensive experience in corporate governance and compliance.
• Proven track record in the automotive retail or related industry is preferred.
• Deep knowledge of South African regulatory frameworks (FIC, FICA, AML, POPIA, FSCA/FAIS).
• Strong commercial legal acumen, especially in JV, shareholder and dealer agreements.
• Experience managing external law firms and leading internal legal teams.

Required skills

What we offer

• Strategic board‑level influence within a high‑growth group.
• Opportunity to build and shape a dedicated legal & compliance function.
• Competitive remuneration package.