Senior Officer: Legal Advisor (Post Level 9)
Job Details
- Job Title: Senior Officer: Legal Advisor (Post Level 9)
- Department: Legal Services and Compliance (Registrar Division)
- Institution: University of the Free State
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
- Contract Type: 1-Year Fixed Term
- Occupational Level: Junior Management
- Start Date: 01 July 2026 (or ASAP)
- Closing Date: 28 April 2026
Job Description
This role is responsible for providing legal advisory, compliance, and litigation support services to the university.
The Legal Advisor ensures that:
- All contracts and agreements are legally sound
- The institution complies with applicable legislation
- Legal risks are identified and mitigated
- Student disciplinary and legal processes are handled effectively
The position plays a key role in supporting management with legal guidance, handling disciplinary matters, and ensuring institutional governance and compliance.
Key Responsibilities
1. Contract Management & Legal Vetting
- Review and scrutinise contracts, agreements, and MOUs
- Redraft contracts to include amendments
- Ensure compliance with legislation and internal policies
- Advise stakeholders on legal terms and implications
2. Legal Opinions & Investigations
- Conduct legal research (legislation and case law)
- Prepare written legal opinions
- Analyse legal documents and provide guidance
- Conduct investigations when required
3. Legal Advice & Compliance Support
- Provide legal advice to management
- Interpret legislation, policies, and institutional rules
- Ensure compliance with laws such as POPIA, PAJA, and PAIA
- Identify and manage legal risks
4. Litigation & Arbitration Support
- Assist with litigation and arbitration matters
- Work with external attorneys and advocates
- Prepare case documentation and coordinate witnesses
- Monitor and report on legal proceedings
5. Policy Development & Review
- Draft and review policies, procedures, and guidelines
- Ensure alignment with legal requirements
- Recommend amendments where necessary
6. Student Disciplinary Matters
- Advise on student and staff disciplinary issues
- Draft charge sheets
- Act as Prosecutor/Evidence Leader
- Facilitate hearings and mediations
- Support appeals and CCMA-related matters
7. Administration & Reporting
- Manage legal case files and documentation
- Compile reports and provide updates
- Monitor project budgets and expenditures
- Ensure efficient case administration
Minimum Requirements
Qualifications
- LLB degree (NQF Level 8)
Professional Requirements
- Admitted Attorney or Advocate (proof required)
Experience
- Minimum 2 years practicing experience
- Minimum 3 years post-admission experience
- Experience in:
- Litigation
- Disciplinary hearings
- Investigations or dispute resolution
Recommended / Advantageous
- Experience in higher education sector
- Knowledge of university systems and policies
- Membership with a professional body (e.g., LPC)
- Mediation or forensic investigation certification
- Experience as an initiator in disciplinary hearings
Key Competencies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to manage multiple legal matters
- Leadership and decision-making ability
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills
- High attention to detail and compliance