Senior Corporate Counsel

J.D. Irving, Limited; New Brunswick; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Canadian firm is seeking a Senior Corporate Counsel to provide strategic legal advice and manage contracts at their Saint John headquarters. The ideal candidate will have a law degree and at least 6 years of corporate or commercial legal experience, equipped with strong negotiation skills and the ability to work well with senior leadership. This position is integral to supporting the company's business operations and offers a vibrant and inclusive work environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years of experience in corporate/commercial law.
• Experience gained at a top-tier law firm or in-house environment.
• Strong communication skills to engage effectively at all levels.

Responsibilities

• Advise senior leadership on legal risks and mitigation strategies.
• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of contracts.
• Support mergers, acquisitions, and other strategic transactions.

Skills

Strategic legal advice

Contract negotiation

Risk management

Interpersonal skills

Time management

Education

Law degree from a recognized institution (LLB or JD)

Job description

Senior Corporate Counsel – Saint John, New Brunswick

We are currently seeking an exceptional legal professional to join our dynamic Legal Department at our Saint John, New Brunswick headquarters. The Senior Corporate Counsel reports directly to the General Counsel and is integral to supporting a large, complex business in a fast‑paced environment.

As part of our team, you will provide strategic legal and commercial advice on a wide range of issues, including transactions, contracts, risk management, and negotiations with third parties.

Responsibilities

• Advise senior leadership and business units on legal risks and mitigation strategies
• Provide strategic legal and commercial advice to multiple levels of the organization
• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of contracts
• Support mergers, acquisitions, and other strategic transactions

Qualifications

• Law degree from a recognized institution (LLB or JD)
• Minimum 6 years of experience
• Corporate/commercial experience gained at a top‑tier law firm and/or in‑house environment
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to engage effectively at all levels of the organization
• Exceptional organizational and time‑management abilities to handle multiple priorities

About Us

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) has operations in Canada and the United States and employs a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.

We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.

Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.

We appreciate your interest in our company; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

About The Team

Irving Business Services is a vital support function within J.D. Irving, Limited, delivering expertise in essential areas such as Finance, Human Resources, Supply Chain, Health and Safety, Communications, and Legal.

By managing resources, delivering fast and flexible outcomes, and fostering innovation, Irving Business Services plays a critical role in driving operational success and supporting the company’s long‑term strategic goals. With a focus on collaboration and continuous improvement, Irving Business Services offers exciting opportunities for growth and development within a leading organization.