Senior Legal Counsel

Petromin Corporation; Jeddah; On-site; SAR 250,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive and industrial firm in Saudi Arabia seeks a Senior Legal Counsel to provide expertise in commercial, corporate, compliance, and litigation matters specific to KSA. The candidate will manage contract negotiations, legal documentation, and provide guidance on regulatory requirements while ensuring best practices in legal processes. Strong bilingual skills in Arabic and English are essential, along with a law degree and substantial experience in the field.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience managing legal teams or working in a law firm.
• Proven track record in corporate, compliance, and litigation matters.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English and Arabic.

Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate commercial contracts.
• Conduct legal research on KSA-specific legal matters.
• Provide legal advice on corporate governance and compliance.

Skills

Legal knowledge in KSA

Contract negotiation

Litigation strategy

Compliance expertise

Bilingual in Arabic and English

Education

Bachelor’s Law Degree

Job description

Job Summary & Main Goal:

The Senior Legal Counsel will provide legal expertise and support for Petromin Corporation (“PM”), with a primary focus on commercial, corporate, compliance, and litigation matters, particularly in the automotive and industrial manufacturing sectors. This role requires a thorough understanding of the legal processes, terminology, and practices specific to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), in addition to advising on international best practices and providing leadership within the legal team.

Main Tasks & Responsibilities:

• Contract Management and Legal Documentation: Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of commercial contracts and legal documents, ensuring compliance with applicable laws in KSA and business objectives. Support the PM vertical team meetings and oversee the work of legal counsel and other legal team members in the relevant verticals.
• Legal Research and Risk Management: Conduct legal research on KSA-specific legal matters and proactively identify and assess legal risks. Advise internal stakeholders on strategies to mitigate risks, particularly in relation to local KSA laws and regulations.
• Litigation and Case Management: Assess the strengths and weaknesses of potential litigation cases under KSA legal jurisdiction and assist in litigation strategies. Oversee allocated litigation cases, liaise with local advocates, and ensure timely management of legal matters in the best interests of the Group.
• Legal Advisory and Corporate Governance: Advise senior management on corporate, commercial, and labor law matters affecting the business, ensuring compliance with KSA laws. Provide counsel on company structures, joint venture setups, and corporate restructuring strategies in the context of KSA-specific legal frameworks.
• Mergers and Acquisitions: Provide legal support and advice during mergers and acquisitions, ensuring that KSA-specific regulatory requirements are met, and the integration of acquired assets aligns with PM’s strategic goals.
• Compliance and Corporate Governance: Assist with the design and delivery of PM's compliance program, ensuring adherence to KSA regulations and international standards. Keep senior management informed about changes in KSA laws and regulations impacting PM’s operations.
• Corporate Filings and Licenses: Ensure all corporate filings for legal entities within PM's business verticals in KSA are up-to-date and in order, complying with the regulations set by local authorities. Oversee the renewal of corporate licenses and other authorizations in KSA.
• Legal Training and Development: Provide training to PM business teams on KSA-specific legal processes, compliance obligations, and best practices in commercial contracting and intellectual property matters. Attend quarterly business reviews (QBRs) and regularly visit PM divisions to ensure legal matters are addressed efficiently.
• Reporting and Tracking: Track action items and submit regular reports to the Head of Legal, including monthly status reports on legal matters, with particular attention to compliance with KSA regulations.

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Law Degree from a recognized Western jurisdiction (UK, US, Europe, New Zealand, AUS).
• In-depth knowledge of legal processes, terminology, and regulatory frameworks in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in managing in-house legal teams or working in a reputable law firm.
• Proven track record of providing legal support in commercial, corporate, compliance, and litigation matters, particularly within the KSA market.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English and Arabic (preferred).
• Proficient in drafting legal documents and contracts in accordance with KSA law.
• Excellent negotiation, influencing, and presentation skills.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities.
• In-depth understanding of KSA corporate, commercial, and labor laws.
• High levels of professionalism and integrity.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage stress effectively.
• Collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills.
• Adaptability and flexibility to work in an international business environment.
• Keen judgment and ability to assess complex legal and business matters within the KSA context.
• Proficiency in both Arabic and English.