Commercial Lawyer - Supply Chain

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, seeks a diligent Commercial Lawyer to focus on its extensive supply chain operations. The role requires drafting, reviewing, and negotiating supply chain contracts and advising on related legal matters within a hands-on, in-office setting.

The ideal candidate is admitted as an attorney in South Africa with 4–6 years PQE in commercial law, and can liaise effectively with suppliers, distributors, and logistics partners across the region.

Qualifications

• Admitted SA Attorney with 4–6 years PQE in commercial law.
• Experience drafting and negotiating supply chain, logistics, or procurement contracts.
• Strong understanding of SA contract law and commercial principles.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder liaison skills.
• Based in Port Elizabeth or willing to relocate to the Eastern Cape; in-office role.

Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of commercial agreements including supply, logistics, distribution, and service level agreements.
• Advise on legal aspects related to supply chain management, procurement, and inventory.
• Ensure compliance with SA laws impacting supply chain operations.
• Manage contract disputes and coordinate with teams to resolve issues.
• Conduct legal research and provide practical guidance on supply chain matters.
• Develop and maintain standard contract templates and playbooks for supply chain agreements.
• Collaborate with procurement, operations, and logistics to align terms with business goals.
• Monitor contractual obligations and identify risks.
• Support negotiation of terms with suppliers and service providers in Port Elizabeth.
• Assist with contract management processes.

Skills

Contract drafting

Contract negotiation

Legal analysis

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

Admitted Attorney – South Africa

Tools

Contract management tools

Legal research tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent manufacturing and logistics company operating in Port Elizabeth , seeks a diligent and commercially astute Commercial Lawyer to focus on its extensive supply chain operations. This role requires a candidate who thrives in a hands-on environment and possesses a strong understanding of commercial contracts and supply chain intricacies. Based in Port Elizabeth , the successful individual will be integral to managing and optimizing contractual relationships with suppliers, distributors, and logistics partners across the Eastern Cape region and beyond. This is a vital in-office role for our esteemed client.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of commercial agreements, including supply agreements, logistics contracts, distribution agreements, and service level agreements.
• Advise the business on legal aspects related to supply chain management, procurement, and inventory.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant South African laws and regulations impacting supply chain operations.
• Manage contract disputes and collaborate with relevant teams to find effective resolutions.
• Conduct legal research on supply chain related legal issues and provide practical advice.
• Develop and maintain standard contract templates and playbooks for supply chain agreements.
• Work closely with procurement, operations, and logistics teams to ensure contractual terms support business objectives.
• Monitor key contractual obligations and identify potential risks and liabilities.
• Support the negotiation of terms with new and existing suppliers and service providers in Port Elizabeth .
• Assist with the development and implementation of effective contract management processes.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with at least 4-6 years of post-qualification experience, focusing on commercial law.
• Demonstrable experience in drafting and negotiating supply chain, logistics, or procurement contracts.
• Solid understanding of South African contract law and commercial principles.
• Strong analytical skills and a keen eye for detail in contract review.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with business stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Port Elizabeth , Eastern Cape.
• Experience in the manufacturing or logistics sector is advantageous.
• Proficiency in legal research and contract management tools.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid and a provident fund. Employees will have the opportunity to work within a stable and established industry leader based in Port Elizabeth . Professional development and career growth are encouraged. This role provides direct exposure to critical business operations and the chance to make a significant impact on the company's supply chain strategy in the Eastern Cape .