Legal Advisor

Hungry Lion; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 700 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading fast-food chain in South Africa is seeking a Legal Advisor to manage its legal department and provide strategic legal counsel. The ideal candidate will manage compliance with legislation, draft commercial contracts, and handle legal disputes in a dynamic environment. Applicants should hold an LLB, with an LLM highly desirable, and have at least five years of post-admission experience in commercial law. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a rapidly growing organization with a strong presence across Africa.

Qualifications

• Minimum five years' post-admission experience in commercial law.
• Knowledge of company and labour law across various countries.
• Experience in Quick-Service Restaurants (QSR) or retail preferred.

Responsibilities

• Advise on commercial contracts and corporate governance.
• Manage legal department and compliance with legislation.
• Formulate litigation strategies and manage disputes.

Skills

Strategic legal counsel

Commercial contract drafting

Intellectual Property knowledge

Client centricity

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

Master of Laws (LLM)

Job description

THE OPPORTUNITY

We have an opportunity for an admitted attorney to join our team as a Legal Advisor. The purpose of this position is to (i) assume the management of the legal department and (ii) ensure the achievement of the strategic imperatives of the company and associated companies, by providing legal advice and opinions, drafting commercial contracts, litigation, and Intellectual Property management.

DUTIES/ RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide strategic, commercially perceptive legal counsel regarding all aspects of commercial contracts, vendor agreements, regulatory adherence, Intellectual Property (IP), matters pertaining to the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), and general corporate governance
• Fulfil a legal advisory role on all legal matters, including but not limited to leases, commercial transactions, property purchases, cross‑country agreements, negotiations with suppliers, not only with regard to South Africa but also corporate operations in other African countries and, where appropriate, in collaboration with local external lawyers
• Provide legal opinions on legislation and common law as far as it relates to business activities
• Advise the business on all aspects of IP and trademarks
• Manage IP infringement issues and lead or support prosecution.
• Formulate litigation strategy to manage and assist in the company’s litigious matters
• Monitor ongoing litigation and liaise with external legal advisors, where necessary
• Draft, review, and negotiate terms of complex commercial agreements, including finance and joint venture agreements
• Ensure business compliance with relevant legislation in countries of operation, including but not limited to the Companies Act and Regulations, POPIA, NCA, CPA, LRA, BCEA, etc. and similar legislation in other countries
• Research of legislation, regulation, and the general laws of the countries in which the business has operations
• Contribute to the appropriate management of legal risk and compliance within the business
• Keep abreast with relevant legislation to build international knowledge of African countries and ensure that all stakeholders understand the implications
• Provide support across the business in disputes

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree (Master of Laws (LLM) is highly desirable) and formal admission as an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa, with a minimum of five years’ post‑admission experience in commercial law
• Good working knowledge of company law with the ability to draft corporate documents and commercial agreements involving leases, franchise arrangements and supply terms.
• Working knowledge and experience in trademarks and IP
• Litigation experience
• Knowledge of credit and collateral/security agreements and arrangements
• Knowledge of labour law in RSA and various countries
• Relevant legal experience in Quick‑Service Restaurants (QSR) or retail preferred
• A strong interest and curiosity in corporate transactions and company legislation

COMPETENCIES

• Resilience and stress tolerance
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Client centricity
• Adaptability
• Drive and commitment
• Problem‑solving.
• Emotional intelligence
• Self‑management
• Attention to detail

AN INTRODUCTION TO HUNGRY LION

Hungry Lion’s journey began with a single store in Stellenbosch, Cape Town, in 1997, with a simple vision: to serve great food with genuine warmth and energy. Over the years, that vision has grown into a powerful business with a strong and expanding footprint, with hundreds of restaurants across multiple African countries.

We’re growing fast and building for the future. Our ambitious expansion strategy is opening doors to new countries, new communities, and new possibilities for our teams. This means real career growth, exposure to a dynamic multinational business, and the chance to be part of a brand that’s making a powerful impact in the quick‑service restaurant (QSR) industry.

Our success is powered by people; passionate, driven individuals who bring energy, creativity, and excellence to everything they do. From our restaurant teams to our corporate leadership, every person plays a vital role in delivering exceptional service and growing our brand. Joining Hungry Lion means being part of a fast‑paced, dynamic, and supportive environment where your ideas, skills, and ambition can make a real impact.