In-House Counsel, Energy & Infrastructure

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Bonuses

Professional development

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced In-House Counsel for its Rustenburg, North West operations in the energy and infrastructure sector. Based in Rustenburg, you will provide comprehensive legal support across projects, contracts and regulatory matters, with emphasis on project finance and construction law.

The role entails advising senior management, mitigating risks, drafting complex agreements, and ensuring compliant execution of major developments in the region.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney with post-qualification experience in energy and infrastructure projects.
• Strong background in project finance, construction law and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience advising senior management and mitigating legal risks.
• Proven ability to draft and negotiate complex commercial contracts.
• Familiarity with South African energy regulations and land rights.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on energy and infrastructure projects from start to completion.
• Draft, review and negotiate EPC contracts, PPAs, and concession agreements.
• Advise on regulatory compliance, environmental law, and land use rights.
• Manage legal risk related to project financing and construction.
• Conduct due diligence for new opportunities and acquisitions.
• Liaise with external counsel, government authorities and stakeholders.
• Support business development and project execution with legal insights.
• Assist in corporate governance within project contexts.
• Manage disputes and advise on resolution strategies.
• Keep abreast of industry developments and regulatory reforms.

Skills

Project financing

Construction law

Contract drafting

Regulatory compliance

Negotiation

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the energy and infrastructure sector, is seeking an experienced and commercially astute In-House Counsel to join their legal department based in Rustenburg, North West . This critical role will involve providing comprehensive legal support for a wide array of projects, contracts, and regulatory matters within the dynamic energy and infrastructure landscape. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in project finance, construction law, and relevant regulatory frameworks. You will play a key role in advising senior management, mitigating legal risks, and ensuring the successful execution of major developments. This is a significant opportunity to embed yourself within a leading organization and contribute to shaping the future of energy and infrastructure in the region. The position demands a proactive legal mind capable of navigating complex contractual and compliance challenges specific to this industry, supporting operations across North West .

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on all aspects of energy and infrastructure projects, from conception through to completion.
• Draft, review, and negotiate complex project agreements, EPC contracts, PPA's, and concession agreements.
• Advise on regulatory compliance, environmental law, and land use rights pertinent to project development.
• Manage and mitigate legal risks associated with project financing and construction.
• Conduct legal due diligence for new project opportunities and acquisitions.
• Liaise with external counsel, government authorities, and other stakeholders.
• Support the business development and project execution teams with legal insights and solutions.
• Assist in the development and implementation of corporate governance policies within the project context.
• Manage contract disputes and advise on dispute resolution strategies.
• Stay current with industry developments, legal reforms, and best practices in energy and infrastructure law.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with a minimum of 9 years of post-qualification experience.
• Substantial experience in advising on energy and infrastructure projects, with a strong emphasis on project finance and construction law.
• Demonstrable expertise in drafting and negotiating complex commercial contracts.
• Solid understanding of South African energy regulations, environmental law, and land rights.
• Proven ability to manage legal risk and provide practical, business-oriented advice.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Resilience and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement with government and regulatory bodies is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary, complemented by a comprehensive benefits package including excellent medical aid, a substantial pension fund, and performance-related bonuses. Professional development opportunities, including advanced training and conference attendance, are provided. The company fosters a culture of innovation and offers significant career progression pathways. Generous annual leave and a supportive work environment are guaranteed. This role offers the chance to make a significant impact on key projects in the Rustenburg area and beyond.