Junior Legal Advisor (Post Level 8) at Stellenbosch University

Duties/Pligte

• General legal advice and support
• Promptly responding to enquiries directed to the Legal Services Office.
• Providing written and verbal feedback on legal enquiries within reasonable timelines.
• Serving on task teams, providing guidance on legal implications and potential risks.
• Acting in the best interests of Stellenbosch University after weighing all opinions, interests, and evidence.

Drafting, reviewing, and vetting legal documents

• Drafting, reviewing, and vetting legislation, policies, regulations, management documents, and contracts to ensure alignment with applicable laws and SU's interests.
• Providing detailed commentary and ensuring that amendments safeguard the University's position.

Legal opinions

• Preparing thorough, balanced legal opinions on requested matters.
• Ensuring that opinions provide clear, practical guidance aligned with SU's best interests.

Liaising with external law firms and stakeholders

• Acting as internal liaison and communication coordinator for external legal counsel, particularly in litigation matters, as well as any contract-related matters.
• Maintaining effective working relationships with internal stakeholders and external service providers.

Legal risk management

• Identifying, assessing, and managing legal risks.
• Contributing to policy, guideline, and process development aimed at mitigating legal risk.
• Reviewing and introducing controls to minimise exposure to legal liability.

General and administrative duties

• Working closely and independently with the Senior Legal Advisor and Legal Advisors: Commercial Contracts.
• Drafting reports and providing timely feedback on consultations and legal developments.
• Maintaining proper filing, document management, and administrative records.

Job Requirements/Pos Vereistes

• LLB or relevant professional law degree.
• Admission as an attorney or similar registration, OR at least three years' experience as an in-house legal advisor or within a higher education/regulatory environment.
• At least two years' post-admission experience (if admitted).
• Knowledge of higher education legislation and related regulatory frameworks (e.g. the Higher Education Act, POPIA, PAIA).
• Experience in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts and policy documents.
• The ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced, service-driven environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Proficiency with MS Office and online research tools.
• Experience in liaising with external legal providers and institutional stakeholders.
• A high level of responsibility, sound judgement, and independent decision-making ability.
• Strong facilitation and coordination skills.
• The ability to manage multiple tasks, deadlines, and priorities.
• Professional, courteous, and diplomatic communication style.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organisational and administrative skills with attention to detail.

Recommendation/Aanbeveling

The ideal candidate will have:

• Prior experience within higher education or another regulated environment.
• Demonstrated experience with or working knowledge of legal risk mnagement.
• Exposure to contract drafting, policy review, and compliance matters.
• The ability to provide pragmatic legal guidance aligned with institutional objectives.
• Strong interpersonal skills and confidence in stakeholder engagement.

Closing Date 09-Jan-2026