Legal Counsel - Commercial Transactions

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Hybrid work model

Stellenbosch lifestyle

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Legal Counsel (Commercial Transactions) in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will draft, negotiate, and manage a wide range of commercial agreements to support growth in the wine and spirits industry.

Rooted in corporate and commercial law, you will partner with business development, sales, and operations to minimize risk while enabling strategic deals. Hybrid work model offered.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
• 5–7 years of corporate and commercial law experience with transactional focus.
• Proven ability to draft and negotiate complex commercial agreements.
• Familiarity with IP law and governance principles.
• Understanding of wine and spirits industry is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate various commercial contracts.
• Provide legal advice on transactional matters including M&A and JVs.
• Ensure compliance with laws related to food and beverage production and export.
• Manage brand protection and intellectual property.
• Advise on corporate structuring and governance for transactions.
• Conduct legal due diligence for opportunities and investments.
• Assist in disputes arising from commercial contracts.
• Stay updated on industry-specific legal developments.

Skills

Contract drafting

Contract negotiation

Corporate governance

IP law

Regulatory compliance

Education

Admitted SA Attorney / LLB or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading firm in the wine and spirits industry, is seeking a dedicated Legal Counsel with a strong focus on Commercial Transactions. This role is situated in the picturesque viticultural region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The successful candidate will be instrumental in drafting, negotiating, and managing a wide range of commercial agreements that support the company's expansive operations and strategic growth. This position offers a dynamic work environment for a legal professional passionate about commercial law within a globally recognized industry. You will work closely with business development, sales, and operational teams to ensure legal risks are managed effectively and commercial objectives are met. This is a key role within the company's legal framework.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate various commercial contracts, including supply agreements, distribution agreements, marketing collaborations, and licensing agreements.
• Provide legal advice on transactional matters, including mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures within the industry.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, including those related to food and beverage production and export.
• Manage legal aspects of brand protection and intellectual property.
• Advise on corporate structuring and governance related to transactional activities.
• Conduct legal due diligence for potential business opportunities and investments.
• Assist in managing and resolving disputes arising from commercial contracts.
• Stay updated on industry-specific legal developments and best practices.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in corporate and commercial law, with a significant focus on transactional work.
• Proven experience in drafting and negotiating complex commercial agreements.
• Familiarity with intellectual property law and corporate governance principles.
• Strong understanding of the legal landscape relevant to the wine and spirits industry is advantageous.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and meet deadlines effectively.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a provident fund. The position is based in the beautiful setting of Stellenbosch, Western Cape, offering an attractive lifestyle. Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a dynamic industry are provided. This role supports a hybrid work model, promoting flexibility and work-life balance. Join a company that values its legal team and their contribution to its success.