Transnet is seeking a highly experienced and strategic professional for the position of General Manager: Legal Risk Governance. This leadership role is responsible for developing and overseeing the legal, risk, and governance frameworks that support business continuity, compliance, and operational integrity across the organisation.

Purpose of the Role

The General Manager: Legal Risk Governance will provide strategic direction in the implementation of legal, governance, and enterprise risk strategies aligned with Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager’s (TRIM) operational and business objectives. The role ensures that all legal and compliance obligations are met, contracts are properly managed, risks are proactively mitigated, and governance structures are optimised for effective decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage an integrated Legal, Risk, Governance and Regulatory strategy that ensures full compliance with applicable laws and supports business sustainability.

• Provide leadership in all legal matters including contract management, regulatory compliance, dispute resolution, and litigation risk mitigation.

• Oversee the review, negotiation, and structuring of commercial and supplier contracts in collaboration with internal process owners.

• Ensure regulatory compliance for Train Operating Companies (TOCs), Yard Operators, and other stakeholders operating within the TRIM framework.

• Design and implement a materiality and significance framework to guide decision-making through structured delegation of authority.

• Establish and manage governance frameworks that support efficient and effective decision-making, contributing to improved operational and financial performance.

• Lead the development of a comprehensive enterprise-wide risk management strategy that addresses risks across capital projects, operations, commercial engagements, and service delivery.

• Create and maintain an early warning system, tools, and reporting templates to proactively identify and escalate emerging risks to relevant stakeholders and governance bodies.

• Drive a culture of compliance across the organisation, ensuring alignment with internal policies, industry regulations, and statutory corporate governance standards.

• Provide strategic legal support and stakeholder advisory services to ensure continuity of operations and safeguard organisational integrity.

• Oversee the implementation of robust contract management processes to ensure compliance and performance monitoring across all agreements.

• Manage internal and external communications on legal and reputational risks that could impact the company’s public standing and long-term sustainability.

• Ensure the delivery of secretariat functions to support governance structures across TRIM and maintain compliance with applicable regulations and standards.

Qualifications and Experience

• LLB degree with admission as an Attorney or Advocate.

• Minimum of 12 years’ experience in legal, compliance, governance, assurance, or risk management in a large, complex organisation, including at least 5 years in a senior management role.

• Strong understanding of South Africa’s legislative and regulatory frameworks, particularly within regulated industries.

• Postgraduate qualification in a relevant discipline will be advantageous.

• Certified Risk Officer qualification will be an advantage.

• Demonstrated ability to handle legal and financial responsibilities with integrity and in compliance with the National Credit Act Amendment 19.

• Willingness to undergo a lifestyle audit.

Standard Requirements

• Valid Code 8 driver’s license.

• Willingness to travel as required by business needs.

Core Competencies

• Strategy and Sustainability

• Ethical and Inspirational Leadership

• Business Performance and Delivery

• Relationship Management

• Corporate Governance and Compliance

• Personal Mastery

Equity Statement

Transnet is committed to employment equity. Preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants from designated groups in line with the organisation’s Employment Equity Plan and transformation objectives.

This is a strategic opportunity for an experienced General Manager with a legal and governance background to contribute to the long-term sustainability and compliance of South Africa’s national rail infrastructure.