In-House Counsel - Corporate & Commercial

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Retirement annuity

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced In-House Counsel to oversee corporate and commercial legal affairs in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will provide strategic legal advice, manage governance, and support growth in a dynamic wine and agricultural sector.

The role requires Admitted Attorney status with SA High Court and strong experience in corporate/ commercial law, M&A, and IP. Based in Stellenbosch, you will collaborate cross-functionally with leadership.

Qualifications

• Admitted attorney with SA High Court status and right to practice.
• Strong corporate and commercial law background.
• Experience in drafting and negotiating complex contracts.
• Ability to provide strategic business-focused legal advice.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive legal counsel on governance, compliance and risk.
• Draft, review and negotiate commercial agreements and contracts.
• Advise on mergers, acquisitions, and corporate restructurings.
• Manage IP portfolios, trademarks, and licensing matters.
• Coordinate with external counsel and support business growth.

Skills

Commercial acumen

Contract negotiation

Analytical thinking

Education

Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the Western Cape's burgeoning wine and agricultural sector, is seeking an experienced In-House Counsel to oversee its corporate and commercial legal affairs. Based in the picturesque town of Stellenbosch, this role requires a versatile legal professional capable of handling a wide array of legal matters. You will be responsible for providing strategic legal advice on corporate governance, commercial contracts, mergers and acquisitions, compliance, and intellectual property. The ideal candidate will have a strong commercial acumen and the ability to translate complex legal requirements into practical business solutions. This is a significant opportunity to join a dynamic company and play a crucial role in its strategic decision-making and legal framework. We are looking for a proactive, business-minded lawyer who can effectively manage legal risks and support the company's growth objectives in the Stellenbosch area and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive legal counsel on corporate governance, company secretarial duties, and compliance matters.
• Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of commercial agreements, including supply, distribution, and service contracts.
• Advise on mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and other corporate restructuring activities.
• Manage intellectual property portfolios, including trademarks and licensing agreements.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant South African laws and regulations, including agricultural and wine industry specific regulations.
• Support the business development team with legal aspects of new ventures and partnerships.
• Manage external legal counsel relationships and litigation where necessary.
• Conduct legal research and provide proactive advice on legal risks and opportunities.
• Assist in the development and implementation of internal policies and procedures.
• Contribute to strategic planning and decision-making processes.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
• Minimum of 6 years of post-qualification experience, with a strong background in corporate and commercial law.
• Experience in drafting and negotiating complex commercial contracts.
• Sound knowledge of corporate governance principles and company law.
• Experience with M&A transactions is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a fast-paced business environment.
• Strong business acumen and strategic thinking capabilities.
• Familiarity with the agricultural or wine industry in South Africa is a plus.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package, reflective of expertise and responsibilities.
• Annual bonus based on company and individual performance.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement annuity.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within the company.
• Exposure to diverse and strategic business initiatives.
• A stimulating work environment in the heart of the Cape Winelands.
• Potential for future leadership roles within the legal department.
• Employee discounts on company products and services.