In-House Counsel - Energy Sector

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Medical & dental coverage

Retirement fund

Annual performance bonuses

Relocation assistance

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced In-House Counsel to provide comprehensive legal support from Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role requires expertise in energy law, regulatory compliance, and complex commercial transactions to guide risk management and contractual governance.

You will advise on contracts, governance, and disputes, working with internal teams and external counsel to navigate evolving energy regulations and policy changes.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney with post-qualification experience in energy or corporate/commercial law.
• Strong drafting and negotiation skills across complex commercial contracts.
• Experience with regulatory compliance and environmental law in the energy sector.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on energy sector matters, including regulatory compliance and project development.
• Draft, review, and negotiate EPC contracts, PPAs, JVs, and supply agreements.
• Manage legal risks and advise on corporate governance and compliance.

Skills

Energy law

Regulatory compliance

Contract negotiation

Corporate/commercial law

Environmental law

Legal risk management

Stakeholder communication

Education

Bar admission

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the energy sector, is seeking an experienced In-House Counsel to provide comprehensive legal support from their strategic base in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role demands a seasoned legal professional with expertise in energy law, regulatory compliance, and complex commercial transactions. You will be integral to advising on legal risks, managing contracts, and ensuring the company operates within the evolving energy landscape. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a forward-thinking organization and contribute to its success in a critical industry.

Key Responsibilities

Provide expert legal advice on all matters pertaining to the energy sector, including regulatory compliance, project development, and environmental law. Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of agreements, such as EPC contracts, power purchase agreements, joint venture agreements, and supply chain contracts. Manage and mitigate legal risks associated with energy projects and operations. Ensure adherence to all relevant local and international laws and regulations governing the energy industry. Advise on corporate governance and compliance matters. Manage disputes and litigation, working closely with external counsel when necessary. Support business development activities by providing legal input on new ventures and partnerships. Stay updated on legal and policy changes impacting the energy sector.

Requirements

Admitted Attorney with a minimum of 7 years of post-qualification experience, with a significant portion focused on energy law and/or corporate/commercial law. Proven experience in advising on energy projects, regulatory frameworks, and related contracts. Strong understanding of environmental law and its application in the energy sector. Excellent negotiation, drafting, and analytical skills. Ability to manage complex legal issues and provide practical, business-oriented advice. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships across departments. Experience in managing external legal resources effectively. Candidates must be self-starters with a proactive approach to identifying and addressing legal challenges in the dynamic energy market of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive executive salary package, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, a generous retirement fund, annual bonuses tied to performance, relocation assistance if applicable, and substantial opportunities for career advancement. The company culture is one of innovation and teamwork, set against the backdrop of the thriving industrial and coastal environment of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .