We wish to hire an Associate with at least 1-2 years' post-qualification experience in Employment law, it would also be preferable if the candidate has knowledge of Data Protection law but this is not mandatory.
DLA Piper in South Africa is part of a global organisation with leading Employment and Data Protection teams across multiple jurisdictions thereby providing the opportunity to collaborate with and learn from specialists across other jurisdictions and become involved in cross-border transactions. DLA Piper also has a strong African network with the opportunity to work on multi-jurisdictional matters across Africa.
Global firms need cross-border thinkers and we can provide the platform for you to achieve results you're proud of where you can define the impact you make.
Main duties and responsibilities
Candidates must be able to demonstrate exceptional standards of client service and quality of work within quick turn-around times, as well as experience in taking a proactive role on transactions.
The candidate would be required to have expertise and experience in advising global organisations in relation to the full life cycle of employment as well as providing advice in relation to mergers, restructurings, retrenchments and section 197 transfers. The candidate must have strong drafting skills and be able to draft opinions and agreements of a high quality in quick turn-around times. It would also be an advantage if the candidate has experience with training, litigation and conducting employment-related investigations. We also encourage our team to take part in business development initiatives and write articles and participate in events that show case our expertise and would be seeking a candidate who shares this passion.
From a data protection perspective, the candidate would need to be able to upskill themselves within a reasonable period to draft and amend documents to ensure that such documents contain appropriate data protection clauses in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act, 2013.
About you
We pride ourselves on having a collaborative environment and are looking for approachable but confident lawyers with strong potential. While we do not set upper or lower limits of PQE for any of our vacancies, candidates with at least 1 to 2 years' PQE are likely to have the right level of knowledge and experience needed for this role.
The successful candidate will be highly ambitious and enthusiastic, with a desire to progress their own career from the enviable platform that DLA Piper provides. They will have a background in Employment Law and possess excellent interpersonal skills and attention to detail, alongside a real focus on teamwork.
The ideal candidate will:
- Be a qualified lawyer who is admitted as an attorney in South Africa or will be admitted as an attorney in the foreseeable future
- Have strong relevant technical skills, ideally experienced in the types of work described above
- Possess Working knowledge of the South African employment environment
- Have an excellent academic record
- Be able to create and deliver sustainable, high quality client service whilst also considering the client's wider business objectives
- Carry out delegated work efficiently and to the highest quality
- Seek to manage own utilisation in order to meet individual targets
- Take ownership for achieving agreed objectives
- Be client-facing and actively undertake to help drive and support a variety of business development activities - demonstrate the desire to build own reputation and personal brand through client and sector initiatives, internally and externally
- Be commercially astute and stay current on key legal and business news
- Have the ability to work seamlessly across regional and multi-jurisdictional teams and time-zones, as well as effectively work on own initiative
- Have in-depth experience drafting and creating legal documents
- Exhibit behaviour consistent with the firm's values and build relationships based on respect, trust and integrity.
This Role Profile is not designed to be exhaustive and can be varied as required to develop or fulfil this role.
About us
We're a global law firm helping our clients achieve their goals wherever they do business. Our pursuit of innovation has transformed our delivery of legal services. With offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, we deliver exceptional outcomes on cross-border projects, critical transactions and high-stakes disputes.
At DLA Piper, we understand that inclusion is not a one-size-fits-all concept. We embrace and celebrate the range of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that each individual brings to our firm. By fostering a culture that welcomes and appreciates all aspects of our individuality, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
Our commitment to inclusion and positive social impact enables us to provide exceptional service to our clients and communities, while nurturing a unique and inclusive culture for all our people. We welcome the unique contribution that you will bring to our firm and actively encourage applications from all talented people – however your talent is packaged, whatever your background or circumstance and regardless of how you identify.
We are committed to being accessible and accommodating any reasonable adjustments needed throughout the recruitment process to ensure an inclusive experience for all. If you need any support or adjustments, please let us know.
Where local legislation permits, we will conduct relevant pre-engagement screening checks prior to your first day.
Apply nowRequesting Adjustments
At DLA Piper, we aim to make meaningful progress and build an inclusive culture where anyone affected by disability, neurodiversity or a long-term health condition has an equitable and accessible chance of success. If you think you may need adjustments or additional support to enable you to participate in our recruitment process, please contact our Recruitment team and we will be happy to support you.
Agile Working
We recognise that people have responsibilities and interests outside of their career and that as a business, we all benefit from working flexibly. That’s why we are open to discussing with candidates the different ways in which we are able to support requests for agile working arrangements.
Pre-Engagement Screening
In the event that we make an offer to you, and where local legislation permits, we will conduct pre-engagement screening checks that may include but are not limited to your professional and academic qualifications, your eligibility to work in the relevant jurisdiction, any criminal records, your financial stability, and references from previous employers.
Our hiring approach
Our hiring approach enables us to learn about the professional and person you are, and gives you the opportunity to learn about us. Your recruitment experience can differ depending on the type of role you are interviewing for. You will always meet your direct Line Manager for your role, as well as peers and close collaborators for the position. For some of our roles we may also use assessment tools, practical exercises, and panel presentations. Your Recruitment Business Partner will inform you of the recruitment process at the start of any recruitment process, but please let us know if you have any questions prior to making an application.
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