Job Description

OVERVIEWWe are looking for a skilled legal professional to provide expert advice and support across our procurement, leasing, facilities management, and maintenance departments. The ideal candidate will possess a thorough understanding of commercial law, strong negotiation abilities, and expertise in managing complex legal challenges. As a Commercial Legal Advisor, you will contribute strategically to risk mitigation, improving organizational efficiency, and ensuring that legal strategies align with business objectives.RESPONSIBILITIES:Legal Support:

• Provide comprehensive legal advice and support to the procurement, leasing, facilities management, and maintenance departments.
• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of commercial contracts, including procurement agreements, lease agreements, service contracts, and maintenance agreements.
• Ensure contracts reflect current business objectives while minimising exposure to disputes and managing contract life cycles.
• Ensure all contracts comply with legal requirements and company policies.
• Manage and assist with property acquisitions and disposals, including drafting agreements and legal opinions.
• Implement systems for monitoring contract life cycles, proactively managing renewal periods, and mitigating contractual gaps.

Risk Management:

• Identify and mitigate legal risks associated with procurement, leasing, facilities management, and maintenance activities.
• Develop and implement risk management strategies to protect the company's interests.
• Create risk assessment protocols and lead initiatives to continuously improve contractual processes.
• Oversee dispute resolution efforts, including negotiations, mediations, and arbitrations, minimizing reliance on external legal counsel.

Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, including commercial, contract, and property law.

Monitor changes in legislation and advise on their impact on the company's operations. * Lead the development, implementation, and enforcement of legal policies, procedures, and guidelines across the organisation.

• Ensure the business remains compliant with applicable legal standards and regulatory changes.

Dispute Resolution:

• Manage and resolve disputes related to procurement, leasing, facilities management, and maintenance.

Represent the company in negotiations, mediations, and, if necessary, litigation. * Minimise reliance on external legal counsel, with a focus on internal legal management of disputes.Training and Development:

• Provide training and guidance to internal stakeholders on legal issues and best practices.
• Stay updated on legal developments and share knowledge with the team.
• Mentor and guide junior legal staff, promoting continuous learning and development.
• Deliver regular legal updates and training to other departments, ensuring alignment on legal matters across business units.

Commercial Legal Strategy:

• Collaborate with business units to proactively identify legal challenges and develop strategies that align with broader commercial objectives.
• Provide strategic legal counsel to senior leadership and ensure legal strategies are aligned with evolving business priorities.
• Implement technology-driven solutions for contract management and automation to enhance efficiency.

Stakeholder Management:

• Build and maintain relationships with internal stakeholders and external legal counsel to ensure smooth legal operations and effective communication.
• Regularly update senior management on potential legal risks, ongoing disputes, and evolving regulations impacting the company.

REQUIREMENTS:

• LLB degree or equivalent legal qualification.
• Admission as an attorney or advocate in South Africa.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in commercial law, with a focus on procurement, leasing, facilities management, and maintenance.

SKILLS:

• Strong negotiation and drafting skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience implementing legal risk management strategies and contract automation systems.

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