Conveyancing Attorney Risk & Compliance Officer - Staff Solutions

Key Responsibilities

Risk & Compliance

• Act as the firm's Compliance Officer in terms of the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FIC Act).
• Monitor and report on the firm's risk exposure, providing recommendations to senior management and the Board.
• Manage and control fraud, financial losses and money laundering risks on a daily basis.
• Verify the legitimacy and source of funds for all purchasers in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements.
• Verify the validity and authenticity of visas, identity documents and passports.
• Confirm that purchasers are legally present in South Africa where applicable.
• Maintain, update and monitor the Risk Management and Compliance Programme (RMCP) across all three branches.
• Verify FICA documentation to ensure that documents are authentic, accurate, current and within the required validity period.
• Oversee and conduct FICA-related risk assessments across all three branches.
• Manage and review all KYC (Know Your Customer) reports for purchasers and sellers.
• Ensure that all Offers to Purchase (OTPs) received are forwarded for compliance review and that the required initial communication is sent to both parties.
• Ensure that all purchasers and sellers complete the required POPIA consent documentation.
• Provide in-person assistance to clients submitting their FICA documentation.
• Coordinate signing appointments for transfer clients.
• Develop, implement and maintain company policies and procedures in line with applicable legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor ongoing regulatory compliance and ensure that the organisation adheres to all applicable laws and regulations.
• Oversee or conduct internal compliance audits, identify gaps and implement corrective measures.
• Assess and monitor the compliance of third-party service providers, vendors and contractors.
• Identify areas of potential compliance and operational risk and recommend appropriate improvements.

Conveyancing

• Meet with clients to facilitate the signing of conveyancing documentation and ensure that all FICA documentation provided meets the requirements of the FICA Act and relevant bank SLA requirements.
• Work closely with Transfer Secretaries and review files prior to client appointments to identify and resolve potential issues.
• Ensure that all client appointments are attended to professionally and timeously.
• Handle client complaints and queries promptly and professionally, ensuring appropriate resolution.
• Keep Directors informed of significant client matters, complaints and resolutions via email or in person.
• Maintain strong working relationships with Transfer Secretaries and internal stakeholders to ensure efficient file progression.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with clients and other key stakeholders.
• Generate leads and actively contribute towards building and developing an independent client base.
• Build and maintain relationships with prospective clients and referral sources.
• Ensure that internal and external conveyancing processes are followed accurately and efficiently.
• Identify potential issues proactively and implement practical solutions to minimise delays and risk.

Minimum Requirements

• LLB degree.
• Minimum 2 years' experience as an admitted attorney.
• Must be an Admitted Conveyancer.
• Minimum 1 year's experience as a Conveyancer.
• Strong understanding of conveyancing, FICA, KYC, POPIA and compliance requirements.
• Previous experience in client-facing roles and client service.
• Willingness to travel when required.

Key Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Highly organised and detail-oriented.
• Strong client relationship management skills.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Results-driven and target-oriented.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Strong understanding of internal and external conveyancing processes.
• High level of integrity, confidentiality and professional judgement.
• Proactive and solutions-oriented approach to risk and compliance.