Legal Advisor - Mining & Resources

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement benefits

Study leave for professional dev

Relocation assistance

Community engagement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Legal Advisor for a mining and resources group around Klerksdorp, North West. You will provide comprehensive legal support across mining operations, regulatory compliance, and commercial agreements. Admitted Attorneys with 8+ years in mining law will thrive.

The role offers a competitive package, including relocation assistance and exposure to major projects within a forward-thinking organization committed to responsible mining.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney with 8+ years post-qualification experience focused on mining law.
• Proven expertise in South African mining legislation (MPRDA, MMRA) and environmental law.
• Experience drafting and negotiating complex mining and commercial contracts.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on mining operations, exploration, and resource development.
• Ensure compliance with mining legislation, environmental laws, health and safety regulations.
• Draft, review, and negotiate mining leases, service agreements, and joint venture agreements.
• Advise on corporate governance, mergers, acquisitions, and disposals within the mining sector.
• Manage legal aspects of project development, permitting, and land access.
• Liaise with government authorities, regulatory bodies, and external counsel.
• Assist in litigation and dispute resolution related to mining operations.
• Conduct legal due diligence for new projects and acquisitions.
• Develop and implement legal policies and risk management strategies.

Skills

Mining law

Regulatory compliance

Contract drafting

M&A in resources

Negotiation

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading player in the mining and resources sector with significant operations around Klerksdorp, North West , is seeking a seasoned Legal Advisor to provide comprehensive legal support across its diverse business activities. This pivotal role requires a legal professional with a strong understanding of mining law, environmental regulations, corporate law, and contractual agreements pertinent to the industry. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing legal risks, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting strategic initiatives within this dynamic and complex sector. We offer a challenging and rewarding career path within a company dedicated to operational excellence and sustainable practices. This is an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to critical legal matters in the heart of South Africa's mining region, North West , and to work within a forward-thinking organization that values expertise and innovation. Our client is committed to upholding the highest standards of legal and ethical conduct.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on all matters relating to mining operations, exploration, and resource development.
• Ensure compliance with mining legislation, environmental laws, and health and safety regulations.
• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, including mining leases, service agreements, and joint venture agreements.
• Advise on corporate governance, mergers, acquisitions, and disposals within the mining sector.
• Manage legal aspects of project development, permitting, and land access.
• Liaise with government authorities, regulatory bodies, and external legal counsel.
• Assist in managing litigation and dispute resolution related to mining operations.
• Conduct legal due diligence for new projects and acquisitions.
• Develop and implement legal policies and risk management strategies.
• Stay abreast of legislative changes and industry best practices relevant to the mining sector.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney with a minimum of 8 years of post-qualification experience, with a significant focus on mining and resources law.
• Demonstrated expertise in South African mining legislation (e.g., MPRDA, MMRA) and environmental law.
• Experience in drafting and negotiating complex commercial and mining-related contracts.
• Solid understanding of corporate law and M&A within the resources sector.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex legal projects and provide practical advice.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• High ethical standards and commitment to professional conduct.
• Previous experience working in-house for a mining company or at a law firm specializing in this sector is highly preferred.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package and performance-related bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement benefits.
• Generous leave provisions and study leave for professional development.
• Opportunity to work on significant and challenging projects in the mining sector.
• Exposure to a dynamic and professional corporate environment in Klerksdorp .
• Relocation assistance for candidates relocating to the area.
• Contribution to a company committed to responsible mining and community engagement.