In-house Counsel, Mergers & Acquisitions

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Port Elizabeth office presence

Competitive salary

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced In-house Counsel specializing in M&A to join its legal team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will manage the full deal lifecycle from initial assessment and due diligence through to transaction execution and post‑completion integration, collaborating with corporate development and external advisors.

The ideal candidate is admitted as an attorney in SA with at least 6 years post-qualification experience, a strong transactional background, and a thorough

Qualifications

• Admitted SA attorney with at least 6 years post‑qualification experience focused on M&A.
• Experience leading complex M&A deals from inception to completion.
• Strong knowledge of SA corporate and securities law.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Hybrid role requiring Port Elizabeth office attendance.

Responsibilities

• Manage and execute M&A transactions, including due diligence, drafting and negotiating sale and purchase agreements, shareholder agreements and ancillary documents.
• Advise on transaction structures, deal terms and risk allocation.
• Coordinate with internal business units, finance teams and external counsel, investment bankers and advisors.
• Conduct legal due diligence on target companies, identifying risks and liabilities.
• Assist with post‑completion integration of acquired entities and related corporate governance matters.

Skills

M&A transactions

Due diligence

Drafting & negotiating

Corporate governance

Contract negotiation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent investment holding company with a diverse portfolio, is seeking an experienced In-house Counsel specializing in Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) to join their dynamic legal team. This role, based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape , will involve providing critical legal support for all M&A activities, from initial assessment and due diligence through to transaction execution and post-completion integration. You will work closely with the corporate development team and external advisors, playing a key role in driving strategic growth and value creation. This is an exceptional opportunity for a lawyer with a strong transactional background to make a significant impact within a fast-growing enterprise. The ideal candidate will bring a wealth of experience in corporate finance and a keen understanding of the deal lifecycle, contributing to the continued expansion of our client’s business interests.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and execute M&A transactions, including due diligence, drafting and negotiating sale and purchase agreements, shareholder agreements, and ancillary documents.
• Advise on transaction structures, deal terms, and risk allocation.
• Coordinate with internal business units, finance teams, and external legal counsel, investment bankers, and other advisors.
• Conduct legal due diligence on target companies, identifying risks and liabilities.
• Assist with post‑completion integration of acquired entities.
• Provide legal support for corporate reorganizations, joint ventures, and other strategic investments.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant corporate laws, securities regulations, and stock exchange rules.
• Support the General Counsel and Legal Director on various corporate governance matters.
• Stay abreast of market trends and best practices in M&A.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with a minimum of 6 years of post‑qualification experience, with a primary focus on M&A transactions.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing complex M&A deals from inception to completion.
• Strong understanding of South African corporate law, securities law, and related regulations.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong business acumen and the ability to provide commercially sound legal advice.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
• Experience working within a corporate legal department or a top‑tier law firm is required.
• A valid driver’s license and willingness to travel occasionally for deal‑related activities.
• This is a Hybrid role requiring attendance at the Port Elizabeth office.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance‑based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and participation in industry conferences.
• Exposure to high‑profile and strategic transactions.
• A challenging and rewarding career within a leading investment firm.
• Collaborative work environment with experienced legal and business professionals in Port Elizabeth.
• A structured hybrid work model offering flexibility.