In-House Legal Counsel - Advocate of the High Court

Ikwezi Mining; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading mining company in South Africa is seeking a Legal Advisor to provide expert in-house legal support. The role includes managing litigation matters, drafting and reviewing commercial contracts, and advising on various legal and regulatory issues. Ideal candidates will possess at least 5 years of experience and an LLB degree. Strong negotiation, analytical, and communication skills are essential for success in this office-based, fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• 5 years post-admission experience in litigation and commercial legal work.
• Experience within mining, manufacturing, or similar heavy industry preferred.
• Ability to handle High Court litigation and complex contractual matters.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal support managing litigation matters.
• Draft and negotiate commercial contracts.
• Advise on compliance and regulatory issues.

Skills

Excellent knowledge of South African commercial law

Strong legal drafting skills

Analytical and detail-oriented

Strong communication skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities

Education

LLB degree

Admitted Advocate of the High Court of South Africa

Job description

Purpose of the role

To provide expert in-house legal support to the organisation by managing litigation matters, reviewing and negotiating commercial contracts, and advising on a wide range of legal and regulatory issues. The role ensures that the company’s operations are legally compliant, risks are minimised, and strategic objectives are supported through sound legal guidance.

Key Responsibilities

Litigation & Dispute Resolution

• Manage and oversee litigation matters, including High Court cases, labour disputes, and regulatory actions.
• Prepare and review legal pleadings, affidavits, and related documents.
• Represent the company in legal proceedings where appropriate.
• Provide legal opinions and strategic input on litigation risk and potential outcomes.

Contract Drafting & Oversight

• Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of commercial agreements, including supply, procurement, service, sales, and confidentiality contracts.
• Ensure all contracts are legally sound, aligned with business strategy, and comply with company policies.
• Advise operational teams on contract interpretation, risks, and implementation.
• Maintain standard contract templates and update them in line with legislative and business changes.

Legal Advisory & Compliance

• Provide practical legal advice to business units on issues relating to commercial law, mining law, labour, regulatory compliance, and environmental law.
• Monitor legislative developments relevant to the mining and manufacturing industry and communicate implications to the business.
• Assist with drafting and implementing internal legal policies, procedures, and compliance frameworks.
• Support internal investigations and audits from a legal perspective.

Risk Management & Governance

• Identify legal risks in business operations and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Contribute to good corporate governance and ensure the organisation adheres to statutory and regulatory requirements.
• Provide legal input into strategic and operational decision‑making processes.

Minimum Requirements

• LLB degree (LLM advantageous).
• Admitted Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
• Minimum 5 years post‑admission experience in litigation and commercial legal work.
• Prior legal experience within mining, manufacturing, or a similar heavy industry is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to handle High Court litigation and complex contractual matters.
• Competencies & Skills:
  • Excellent knowledge of South African commercial, civil, labour, and regulatory law.
  • Strong legal drafting, negotiation, and advocacy skills.
  • Analytical, detail‑oriented, and commercially astute.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills to engage effectively with internal stakeholders and external counsel.
  • Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
  • High integrity, sound judgment, and professionalism.

Working Conditions

Office‑based role with occasional travel to operational sites, courts, or regulatory bodies.

Fast‑paced environment with exposure to complex and sensitive matters.