Legal Advisor

The Agricultural Research Council; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 400 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural research organization in Pretoria is seeking a qualified legal professional to draft and review contracts, provide legal advice to internal stakeholders, and manage litigation processes. The ideal candidate holds an LLB degree and has at least 3 years of experience as a practicing attorney. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential. Competitive remuneration package offered.

Benefits

Competitive remuneration package

Qualifications

• At least 3 years post-admission experience as a practicing attorney.
• Experience in litigation, legal research, and contract drafting.
• Admission as an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Draft, vet, and review contracts.
• Provide legal advice to internal stakeholders.
• Manage litigation processes for ARC.

Skills

Legal drafting

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Proficiency in MS Office

Critical thinking

Education

Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

Job description

Responsibilities

• Drafting / Reviewing / Vetting Agreements: Draft, vet, analyse and review contracts; review and update contract templates; address service requests and submissions in a timely manner.
• Legal Advice to ARC user Departments: Provide written legal advice and support to internal stakeholders; supply urgent comments, opinions and support on latest legal developments impacting ARC.
• Litigation Management: Support litigation for and against ARC; manage pre‑litigation disputes and work to avoid costly proceedings.
• Budget, Audit, Risk and Stakeholder Management: Budget management, audit management, risk management and stakeholder management.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or equivalent Bachelor’s Degree in Law.
• At least 3 years post‑admission experience as a practicing attorney or in a legal advisory capacity with exposure to contract drafting, litigation, legal research and opinions.
• Proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Problem‑solving, analytical skills and industry knowledge relevant to ARC.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to think critically, be assertive and demonstrate leadership and decisiveness.
• Admission as an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.

Remuneration & Benefits

• Competitive remuneration package congruent with scope, responsibilities and stature of the position.

Appointment & Selection

The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance, competency / leadership assessments and preference given to designated groups (including people with disabilities) under the ARC Employment Equity Plan.

Permanent appointments are subject to a six‑month probation period.

Equal Opportunity

The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of the Employment Equity Act.

Application Process

Applications must be accompanied by a covering letter, a detailed CV (including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver's licence) and at least three contactable referees. The SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful.

Enquiries: Ms Tshililo Mabirimisa.

Closes: 12 September.

The company has the right not to appoint.