In-House Legal Advisor

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

On-site parking

Professional development

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an In-House Legal Advisor for its Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal operations. The role supports multiple functions with practical, business-oriented legal solutions and risk mitigation.

You will manage a diverse portfolio, ensuring compliance and advising on corporate governance within a well-established organization. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years post-qualification experience, strong commercial acumen, and the ability to deliver pragmatic legal guidance locally.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with 5+ years post-qualification experience.
• Experience in general corporate law, commercial law and litigation.
• Strong drafting, negotiation and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Based in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and support across commercial contracts, corporate law, compliance and dispute resolution.
• Draft, review and negotiate contracts, leases and other legal documents.
• Manage litigation and liaise with external counsel as required.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including industry-specific legislation.
• Assist in development and implementation of internal policies and procedures.
• Conduct legal research and provide analysis on complex issues.
• Advise on employment law matters and HR-related queries.
• Oversee regulatory filings and ensure timely submission of documentation.
• Protect the companys intellectual property and manage trademark portfolios.
• Support the board on corporate governance matters.

Skills

Admitted Attorney

Commercial law

Contract drafting

Litigation management

Legal research

Regulatory compliance

Team collaboration

Education

LLB

Tools

LexisNexis

Westlaw

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the manufacturing sector, is seeking a diligent and proactive In-House Legal Advisor to join their operations based in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is integral to the company's success, providing essential legal support and guidance across various business functions. You will be responsible for managing a diverse portfolio of legal matters, ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation, and mitigating legal risks. The ideal candidate will possess strong commercial acumen and a commitment to delivering practical, business-oriented legal solutions. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a well-established organization and play a key role in its ongoing development and operational integrity within the Pietermaritzburg region.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and support to all departments on a wide range of matters, including commercial contracts, corporate law, compliance, and dispute resolution.
• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, leases, and other legal documents.
• Manage litigation and pre-litigation matters, liaising with external legal counsel as required.
• Ensure the company's compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, including industry-specific legislation.
• Assist in the development and implementation of internal policies and procedures.
• Conduct legal research and provide analysis on complex legal issues.
• Advise on employment law matters and assist with HR-related legal queries.
• Oversee regulatory filings and ensure timely submission of required documentation.
• Protect the company's intellectual property and manage trademark portfolios.
• Support the board of directors on corporate governance matters.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with at least 5 years of post-qualification experience.
• Experience in general corporate law, commercial law, and litigation is essential.
• Strong understanding of South African legislation relevant to the manufacturing industry.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing multiple priorities effectively.
• High level of professional integrity and attention to detail.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and legal research tools.
• Ability to provide pragmatic and business-focused legal advice.
• Willingness to be based in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Comprehensive medical aid and pension fund benefits.
• Opportunity for career progression within a stable industry leader.
• On-site parking and access to company facilities.
• Contribution to professional development and training.
• Dynamic and supportive work environment.