Senior Legal Counsel - Commercial Contracts

Placements24; Southampton; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 81,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive bonus structure

Medical aid

Provident fund

Life insurance

Career advancement

Dynamic work environment

Generous annual leave

State-of-the-art facilities in Randurg

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Legal Counsel to lead the commercial contracts function in Randburg. The role requires drafting, negotiating and managing complex agreements, advising multiple business units, and mitigating contractual risk.

You will guide strategy, develop templates, and ensure regulatory compliance while mentoring junior staff in a dynamic tech/services environment.

Qualifications

• LLB degree or equivalent legal qualification.
• Admitted as an Attorney or Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in commercial contract law with focus on technology/services.
• Proven ability to negotiate high-value contracts.
• Strong understanding of IP law as applied to contracts.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication with negotiation flair.

Responsibilities

• Lead drafting, review and negotiation of commercial contracts including software licenses, service and master agreements.
• Provide strategic legal advice to sales, procurement and business teams on terms and risk assessments.
• Develop and implement standardized contract templates and playbooks for efficiency.
• Manage contract lifecycle and advise on amendments and renewals.
• Oversee disputes and assist in negotiations or litigation support as needed.
• Stay updated on legal developments affecting commercial contracts and mentor junior staff.

Skills

Negotiation

Contract management

Strategic thinking

Leadership

Risk assessment

IP law

Communication

Education

LLB degree or equivalent legal qualification

Admitted as an Attorney or Advocate (SA High Court)

Tools

Contract management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent and expanding enterprise operating in the technology and services sector, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Legal Counsel to lead their commercial contracts function. Based in Randburg , Gauteng, this role requires a seasoned legal professional with extensive experience in drafting, negotiating, and managing complex commercial agreements. You will be instrumental in advising various business units, mitigating contractual risks, and ensuring alignment with strategic objectives. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional negotiation skills, a deep understanding of commercial law, and the ability to manage multiple high-stakes agreements concurrently. This is a strategic role offering significant influence within the organization, contributing to its continued success and growth. Our client fosters an environment of innovation and collaboration, making this an exciting opportunity for a driven legal expert. Randburg offers a central and accessible location for business.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the drafting, review, and negotiation of a wide range of commercial contracts, including software licenses, service agreements, partnership agreements, NDAs, and master service agreements.


• Provide strategic legal advice to sales, procurement, and business development teams on contractual terms and risk assessment.


• Develop and implement standardized contract templates and playbooks to improve efficiency and consistency.


• Manage contract lifecycle, ensuring compliance with terms and conditions, and advising on contract amendments and renewals.


• Oversee and manage contract disputes, including advising on resolution strategies and, where necessary, representing the company in negotiations or litigation support.


• Stay current with legal developments affecting commercial contracts and provide proactive guidance.


• Mentor and guide junior legal staff or contract managers involved in contract processes.


• Collaborate closely with relevant departments to understand business needs and translate them into legally sound agreements.


• Advise on intellectual property considerations within commercial agreements.


• Ensure all contractual activities adhere to company policies and relevant regulations.

Requirements

• LLB degree or equivalent legal qualification.


• Admitted as an Attorney or Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.


• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in commercial contract law, with a significant focus on complex technology or services agreements.


• Proven expertise in negotiating high-value and complex commercial contracts.


• Strong understanding of intellectual property law and its application in contracts.


• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.


• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a flair for negotiation.


• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work under pressure, and meet demanding deadlines.


• Demonstrated leadership potential or experience managing legal processes/teams.


• Proficiency in contract management software is a plus.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and executive bonus structure.


• Comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, provident fund, and life insurance.


• Significant opportunities for career advancement and leadership within a growing company.


• Dynamic and innovative work environment.


• Generous annual leave and paid time off.


• Access to state-of-the-art facilities in Randburg .


• Exposure to cutting-edge technology and complex business challenges.