In-House Legal Counsel, Mining & Resources

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Medical aid and retirement fund

Hybrid work model and development

CSR and stakeholder engagement support

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg, North West, is seeking an experienced In‑House Legal Counsel to lead mining, environmental, and commercial matters in a hybrid work setting.

You will draft and negotiate mining agreements, oversee regulatory compliance and CSR, and provide strategic legal guidance for projects, mergers, and disputes. This role calls for strong governance and in‑house experience within the mining sector.

Qualifications

• LLB degree or equivalent qualification.
• Admission as an Attorney or Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
• Minimum of 7 years post-qualification experience focused on mining and resources law.
• Expertise in environmental law, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance within mining.
• Experience drafting and negotiating complex mining-related commercial agreements.
• Strong knowledge of South African mining legislation and related acts.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on mining operations and related agreements.
• Draft, review and negotiate mining contracts, JV and service agreements.
• Ensure compliance with mining, environmental, health and safety laws.
• Advise on land access, mineral rights, and permitting processes.
• Support CSR, community engagement and stakeholder relations from a legal perspective.
• Coordinate litigation and disputes with external counsel.
• Assist with mergers, acquisitions and divestitures in the mining sector.
• Develop and implement robust compliance programs and policies.
• Conduct due diligence for new mining projects and investments.
• Monitor legislative changes impacting mining nationally and regionally.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the mining and resources sector , is seeking a highly experienced In-House Legal Counsel to contribute to their operations in Rustenburg, North West . This role requires a legal professional with a robust background in mining law, environmental regulations, and commercial contracts. You will be instrumental in navigating the complex legal landscape of the mining industry, providing strategic advice, and ensuring compliance. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to engage with significant projects and influence legal strategy within a leading enterprise. The role embraces a hybrid work model, blending essential office presence with flexible remote work options.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on all matters pertaining to mining operations, including exploration, extraction, and beneficiation.
• Draft, review, and negotiate mining-related agreements, joint ventures, and service contracts.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant mining legislation, environmental laws, and health and safety regulations.
• Manage legal aspects of land access, mineral rights, and permitting processes.
• Advise on corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and community engagement from a legal perspective.
• Handle litigation and dispute resolution related to mining activities, coordinating with external counsel.
• Support mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures within the mining portfolio.
• Develop and implement robust compliance programs and policies.
• Conduct legal due diligence for new projects and investments.
• Stay updated on legislative changes impacting the mining and resources sector in North West and nationally.

Requirements

• A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree or equivalent qualification.
• Admission as an Attorney or Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
• A minimum of 7 years' post-qualification experience, with a significant focus on mining and resources law.
• Demonstrated expertise in environmental law, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance within the mining sector.
• Experience in drafting and negotiating complex commercial agreements relevant to the industry.
• Strong understanding of South African mining legislation and related acts.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder engagement.
• Ability to manage a diverse workload and meet tight deadlines.
• Experience working as in-house counsel in the mining industry is highly preferred.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and a significant retirement fund.
• This role offers the chance to work on impactful projects within the dynamic mining and resources sector , based in Rustenburg, North West .
• The hybrid work arrangement provides flexibility, and continuous professional development opportunities are readily available.
• Join a forward-thinking legal team that values expertise and innovation.