In-House Counsel, Mergers & Acquisitions

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,300,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical aid

Pension fund

Annual performance bonus

Study leave and development funding

On-site parking

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly skilled In-House Counsel to lead M&A activities from Centurion, South Africa. The role requires managing the legal aspects from due diligence through post-merger integration, with strong expertise in corporate law, transactional finance, and regulatory compliance within SA.

You will work closely with senior management, finance and external advisers to execute complex deals and contribute to strategic growth and expansion.

Qualifications

• Admitted SA attorney with 8+ years in M&A.
• Proven track record managing complex M&A end-to-end.
• Strong knowledge of corporate finance and company law.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation and analytical skills.
• Cross-border transaction experience is a plus.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all legal aspects of M&A transactions including due diligence and deal structuring.
• Draft and negotiate SPAs, APAs, and Merger Agreements.
• Advise board and senior management on legal risks and strategic considerations.
• Ensure compliance with corporate laws and securities regulations.
• Coordinate with external counsel and advisers involved in M&A.
• Manage post-closing integration from a legal perspective.
• Maintain relationships with business stakeholders across departments.
• Provide general corporate governance and compliance support.
• Conduct legal research and provide opinions on transactional matters.
• Maintain comprehensive records of M&A activities.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the (Industry Name, e.g., technology, manufacturing) sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced In-House Counsel to focus on Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A). This critical role is based at their headquarters in Centurion, Gauteng , and will be integral to the company's strategic growth initiatives. You will be responsible for managing the legal aspects of all M&A activities, from initial due diligence through to post-merger integration. This position demands a robust understanding of corporate law, transactional finance, and regulatory compliance within the South African context. The successful candidate will work closely with senior management, finance teams, and external advisors to execute complex transactions seamlessly. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on the company's trajectory and gain exposure to high-stakes corporate deals. Join a company that is at the forefront of innovation and expansion.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all legal aspects of M&A transactions, including due diligence, deal structuring, and contract negotiation.
• Draft, review, and negotiate key transaction documents such as Share Purchase Agreements (SPAs), Asset Purchase Agreements (APAs), and Merger Agreements.
• Advise senior management and the board of directors on legal risks and strategic considerations related to potential acquisitions and divestitures.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant corporate laws, securities regulations, and industry-specific requirements during transactions.
• Coordinate with external legal counsel and other professional advisors involved in M&A activities.
• Manage post-closing integration processes from a legal perspective, including identifying and resolving any outstanding legal issues.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with business stakeholders across various departments.
• Provide general corporate legal support as needed, including governance and compliance matters.
• Conduct legal research and provide timely legal opinions on complex transactional issues.
• Maintain comprehensive records of all M&A activities and related legal documentation.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with a minimum of 8 years of relevant M&A experience, preferably gained in-house or at a leading law firm.
• Demonstrated track record of successfully managing complex M&A transactions from start to finish.
• In-depth knowledge of corporate finance, company law, and transactional legal principles.
• Exceptional drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Experience with cross-border transactions is a significant advantage.
• Strong business acumen and the ability to provide practical, commercially-sound legal advice.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Proven ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.
• Membership in relevant professional bodies is preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, along with a comprehensive benefits program including private medical aid, a substantial pension fund, and an annual performance bonus.
• Employees have access to generous study leave and funding for continuous professional development.
• The company culture promotes collaboration and innovation, with significant opportunities for career advancement.
• Located in the vibrant business hub of Centurion, Gauteng , the office environment is modern and well-equipped.
• Additional benefits include subsidized canteen facilities, on-site parking, and regular company-sponsored social events.
• You will be part of a supportive team where your contributions are recognized and valued.