Senior Legal Counsel - Common Law Qualified

Michael Page; Dubai; On-site; AED 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A diversified regional group in Dubai seeks a Senior Legal Counsel to lead legal initiatives in M&A and governance. The role demands 7-10 years of PQE and strong legal skills in a common law jurisdiction, with a focus on cross-border transactions. An attractive compensation package is offered along with the opportunity to work closely with leadership.

Benefits

Attractive compensation package

Opportunity to work closely with leadership

Qualifications

• 7-10 years PQE with top-tier law firm and in-house experience.
• Proven M&A, governance, and cross-border transaction experience.
• Experience in regulated industries is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead legal support for M&A, restructuring, and integration projects.
• Draft, review, and negotiate complex commercial contracts.
• Oversee governance, board matters, and compliance.

Skills

common law

GCC experience

corporate law

M&A

governance

compliance

Education

Qualified in a common law jurisdiction

Job description

The Senior Legal Counsel will act as the deputy to the General Counsel, leading legal initiatives across M&A, governance, and high-value commercial matters. This is a high-impact role requiring autonomy, strategic thinking, and cross-border legal expertise.

Client Details

A regionally headquartered diversified group with international operations, undergoing accelerated organic and inorganic growth.

Responsibilities

• Lead legal support for M&A, restructuring, and integration projects regionally as well as internationally.
• Draft, review, and negotiate complex commercial contracts and tenders.
• Oversee governance, board matters, and company secretarial compliance.
• Collaborate with Finance, Audit, and Procurement on strategic initiatives.
• Represent Legal in internal committees and cross-functional projects.
• Mentor junior legal staff and drive legal process improvements.
• Coordinate with regulators and external counsel across jurisdictions.

Profile

• 7-10 years PQE with top-tier law firm and in-house experience.
• Qualified in a common law jurisdiction; civil law qualification is a plus.
• Proven M&A, governance, and cross-border transaction experience.
• GCC legal experience is essential.
• Strong drafting, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience in regulated industries is preferred.
• Commercially minded, confident, and capable of working independently.
• High ethical standards and a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset.

Job Offer

• Attractive compensation package.
• Opportunity to work closely with leadership in an exciting organisation.

Skills

• common law
• GCC experience
• corporate law
• M&A
• governance
• compliance