Legal Associate - Mergers & Acquisitions

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Mentorship from M&A lawyers

Career progression opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a motivated Legal Associate to join its Mergers & Acquisitions team in Benoni, Gauteng. This role offers a hybrid model, with opportunities to work closely with partners and senior associates on high-value transactions across the deal lifecycle.

You will conduct due diligence, draft and negotiate key documents, and coordinate with advisors to ensure timely deal closure while developing expertise in transactional law.

Qualifications

• LLB from a recognized university.
• Admitted as an Attorney of the High Court of SA.
• 1–3 years post-qualification experience in corporate law/M&A.
• Strong contract law knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Conduct legal due diligence for M&A transactions.
• Draft, review, and negotiate transaction documents (sale & shareholder agreements).
• Support negotiations and client communication with opposing counsel.
• Research legal issues related to M&A; provide clear advice.

Skills

Due diligence

Drafting & reviewing

Negotiation

Legal research

Communication

Education

LLB

Tools

Legal databases

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading corporate law firm with a strong transactional practice, is seeking a motivated Legal Associate to join their Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) team. This role, based in Benoni, Gauteng, ZA, offers a hybrid working model, allowing for flexibility and collaboration. The M&A Associate will play a key role in advising clients on various stages of M&A transactions, including due diligence, drafting, negotiation, and closing. You will gain exposure to high-value deals and work alongside experienced partners and senior associates, developing your expertise in this specialized area of corporate law. This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious lawyer looking to build a successful career in transactional law.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in conducting legal due diligence for M&A transactions.
• Draft, review, and negotiate transaction documents, including sale agreements, shareholder agreements, and disclosure letters.
• Support the negotiation process and communicate effectively with clients and opposing counsel.
• Research legal issues related to M&A transactions and provide clear advice.
• Coordinate with other advisors, such as financial and tax consultants, during transactions.
• Manage transaction timelines and deliverables to ensure efficient deal execution.
• Assist in post-completion integration and legal follow-up.
• Prepare presentations and reports for clients and internal teams.

Requirements

• A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from a recognized university.
• Admission as an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
• 1-3 years of post-admission experience, with a demonstrated interest or experience in corporate law and M&A.
• Strong understanding of contract law and corporate principles.
• Excellent legal research, drafting, and analytical skills.
• High level of attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team and manage multiple tasks under supervision.
• Proficiency in legal databases and standard office applications.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, commensurate with your experience and skills.
• The hybrid work arrangement provides a balance between office-based teamwork and the flexibility of remote work.
• You will benefit from mentorship from experienced M&A lawyers and gain invaluable hands-on experience in complex transactions.
• Our Benoni, Gauteng, ZA office provides a professional and supportive environment.
• We offer opportunities for professional development, networking, and career progression within a respected law firm.