Cape Town: Paralegal – Financial Services/Property posted by Rory Mackie & Associates

Company overview:

Our client believes funding is more than just capital, its about unlocking potential. Business owners, property developers, and entrepreneurs need more than off-the-shelf solutions; they need a hands-on, relationship-driven approach that understands their unique challenges.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

Our client seeks a meticulous and proactive paralegal who thrives in a fast-paced financial services environment. The successful candidate will demonstrate exceptional attention to detail and possess strong organisational capabilities essential for managing complex legal documentation and compliance requirements. They should be comfortable liaising with clients, attorneys, and internal stakeholders whilst maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality and professionalism. The ideal paralegal will have a solid understanding of South African property law, company law, and financial regulations, with particular experience in loan documentation and security registrations. They require someone who can work independently, prioritise multiple tasks effectively, and communicate clearly with both technical and non-technical audiences.

Key Responsibilities:

• Legal Support Functions:
  • Conduct comprehensive due diligence investigations including Deeds Office searches, PEP screenings, CIPC checks, and credit assessments
  • Draft and issue instruction letters to attorneys for new transactions and cancellations
  • Review commercial and bond documentation, making necessary amendments in collaboration with legal counsel
  • Coordinate execution of legal documents both in person and via digital platforms (DocuSign)
  • Liaise with bond attorneys throughout registration processes to ensure timely completion
  • Oversee delivery, receipt, and verification of original security documentation
  • Prepare draft NDAs, mandates, and Service Level Agreements
• Compliance and Regulatory:
  • Maintain monthly compliance registers for municipal rates, levies, and insurance obligations
  • Monitor regulatory developments and prepare impact reports for management
  • Ensure adherence to Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) requirements
  • Support internal compliance frameworks (KYC, AML, POCA)
• Administrative and Client Management:
  • Maintain and update electronic client files and FICA documentation
  • Input data into loan management systems
  • Prepare meeting agendas, board packs, and meeting minutes
  • Safeguard original loan agreements and security documents
  • Respond to client inquiries and ensure timely follow-ups

Essential Requirements:

• Legal qualification (LLB or equivalent paralegal certification)
• Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in a legal environment, preferably financial services or property law
• Strong knowledge of South African property law, company law, and financial regulations
• Experience with Deeds Office searches, CIPC searches, and credit assessments
• Proficiency in legal document preparation and review
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and legal research platforms
• Strong organisational and time management capabilities
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines

Desirable Requirements:

• Experience with loan documentation and security registrations
• Knowledge of electronic document management systems
• Familiarity with Financial Intelligence Centre regulations
• Previous exposure to compliance and risk management frameworks
• Experience in client-facing roles within financial services