Legal Advisor - Mining and Resources

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development

Career advancement opportunities

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting an experienced Legal Advisor for a major mining sector client based in Polokwane. The role provides strategic legal support on regulatory compliance, environmental law, contracts, and dispute resolution.

You will navigate complex mining regulations, draft and negotiate commercial agreements, and advise on permitting and licensing. A proactive, risk-minded approach to legal matters is essential for success.

Qualifications

• LLB degree from a recognized institution.
• Admitted as an Attorney or Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
• Minimum 7 years post-qualification experience in mining, energy, or natural resources law.
• Strong regulatory, environmental, property and contract law knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal counsel on mining regulations, environmental laws, and health and safety standards.
• Draft, review, and negotiate commercial agreements, including joint venture agreements, supply contracts, and land use agreements.
• Advise on permitting, licensing, and compliance requirements for mining operations.
• Manage and resolve disputes, including litigation and arbitration, related to the mining sector.
• Conduct legal research and provide strategic guidance on CSR and community engagement initiatives.
• Assist in due diligence processes for acquisitions and divestitures within the resources sector.
• Ensure adherence to all relevant legislation and company policies.
• Liaise with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and external legal counsel.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Regulatory navigation

Education

LLB degree

Admission as Attorney/Advocate

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the mining and resources sector, is seeking an experienced Legal Advisor to join their dedicated legal team, strategically located in Polokwane. This integral role involves providing comprehensive legal support and strategic advice on a wide range of matters pertinent to the mining industry, including regulatory compliance, environmental law, contract negotiation, and dispute resolution. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of the unique legal challenges and opportunities within the mining sector. This is a significant career opportunity for a legal professional seeking to make a substantial impact within a leading company in a vital industry. We are looking for an individual with exceptional analytical skills, robust negotiation capabilities, and a proactive approach to legal risk management. The position requires a commitment to ethical practice and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal counsel on mining regulations, environmental laws, and health and safety standards.
• Draft, review, and negotiate various commercial agreements, including joint venture agreements, supply contracts, and land use agreements.
• Advise on permitting, licensing, and compliance requirements for mining operations.
• Manage and resolve legal disputes, including litigation and arbitration, related to the mining sector.
• Conduct legal research and provide strategic guidance on corporate social responsibility and community engagement initiatives.
• Assist in due diligence processes for acquisitions and divestitures within the resources sector.
• Ensure adherence to all relevant legislation and company policies.
• Liaise with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and external legal counsel.

Requirements

• A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from a recognized institution.
• Admission as an Attorney or Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
• A minimum of 7 years of post-qualification experience, with a substantial focus on mining, energy, or natural resources law.
• Demonstrated experience in navigating complex regulatory environments.
• Strong understanding of environmental law, property law, and contract law as applied to the mining industry.
• Excellent negotiation, drafting, and litigation skills.
• Proven ability to provide strategic legal advice in a commercially sensitive context.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Preference will be given to candidates with experience in the Polokwane region or the broader Limpopo Province mining landscape.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and specialized training in mining law.
• Exposure to significant projects and strategic legal initiatives.
• A professional and supportive work environment within a key industry player.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for exceptional candidates.
• Potential for career advancement and leadership roles.