Manager Legal Counsel

Alstom; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in train manufacturing seeks a Legal Counsel Manager to provide legal support on business matters. The role involves contract negotiations, compliance oversight, and managing relationships with external legal firms, requiring significant legal experience and advanced qualifications.

Qualifications

• Admitted attorney or advocate required.
• Minimum of 10 years’ relevant experience in law.
• Experience in private practice at an international law firm for at least 2 years advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal support and advice on business matters.
• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

Skills

Negotiation

Communication

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Interpersonal skills

Education

LLB (NQF Level 7)

LLM (NQF Level 8)

Job description

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Appointments will be made in line with the company's employment equity plan. People with Disability are encouraged to apply.

Gibela’s journey is intrinsically tied to a vision of socio-economic transformation, one that recognises the central role of passenger rail in propelling the South African economy forward. As we embark on this mission, we stand at the crossroads of opportunities and progress, where the revitalisation of commuter rail serves as a cornerstone for building a brighter future.

Gibela stands as Africa’s largest train manufacturing and passenger trains maintenance company, holding steadfast to its commitment to spearheading the revival of the South African railway sector. With a transformative vision, Gibela endeavoured to catalyse the shift towards commuter rail as the preferred mode of transport for urban communities.

We invite suitably qualified candidates to apply for theLegal Counsel Managerposition within theLegalDepartment. The position will report to the Legal Executive and is based inDunnottar, Nigel(Gauteng Province).

Job Purpose

Provide legal support and advice to Gibela's internal clients on business matters involving customers, partners, and subcontractors, and represent the organisation in mediation, arbitration, and litigation.

Experience

Legal Support

• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts and other legal documents, ensuring risks remain within acceptable parameters.
• Provide support in business litigation, arbitration, and other dispute resolution matters.
• Manage relationships with external legal firms.
• Oversee compliance with regulatory requirements from various bodies including the Rail Safety Regulator (RSR) and the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC).
• Coordinate with the South African Reserve Bank regarding international payment regulations and ensure ongoing legal compliance.
• Conduct thorough contractual and legal assessments of tender documentation.
• Advise and assist the business on all legal and contractual issues, including claims management and dispute resolution.

Compliance

• Ensure employees comply with approved delegated authority levels.
• Monitor legislative compliance and address areas of non-compliance promptly.
• Deliver training to internal stakeholders on legislative updates, such as amendments to the Companies Act.
• Maintain adherence to Gibela’s Code of Ethics.
• Assist with the investigation and reporting of non-compliance issues.

Risk Management

• Identify potential legal risks and recommend appropriate mitigation strategies.
• Update and maintain the legal risk register regularly.

People Management

• Prioritise resource allocation, align team objectives, and set and communicate Key Performance Areas (KPAs).
• Foster a culture aligned with company values by inspiring commitment, encouraging collaboration, and supporting development opportunities.
• Promote a high-performance culture that aligns with the organisation’s vision, mission, and strategic objectives.
• Proactively manage direct reports to achieve functional goals, including addressing non-performance and conducting disciplinary processes when necessary.
• Ensure all team members possess the necessary skills and competencies through mentoring and coaching.
• Implement effective people management practices to enhance employee engagement, empowerment, skills development, talent attraction and retention, and succession planning.
• Uphold a workplace culture of integrity and ethics by embedding these values into all procedures, processes, and practices.
• Serve as a change agent for all initiatives related to functional transformation, culture, and diversity.
• Foster a learning-oriented environment within the team’s scope of influence.
• Develop and implement strategies for functional and leadership skills development in partnership with Human Capital Management.

Minimum Requirements

• LLB (NQF Level 7)
• LLM (NQF Level 8) - added advantage
• Legal Practice Council registration
• Corporate Council of SA registration (preferred)
• Admitted attorney or advocate (required)
• Minimum of 10 years’ relevant experience within an international business environment or law firm.
• Proficiency in public tenders and international contracts.
• Previous exposure to international practices through academic studies or professional experience is required.
• Experience in private practice at an international law firm for at least 2 years is advantageous.

Competencies

• Comprehensive understanding of legislation, case law, and practice guidelines.
• Exceptional communication abilities.
• Collaborative team orientation.
• Strong business insight.
• Expertise in negotiation.
• Forward-thinking and proactive mindset.
• Knowledge of procurement standards.
• Effective interpersonal skills.
• Timely responsiveness.
• Familiarity with manufacturing operations.
• Aptitude for managing conflicts.
• Sharp analytical capabilities.
• Insight into the rail sector.
• Advanced problem-solving skills.
• Capacity to handle adversity.
• Awareness of global market regulations.
• Efficient time management.
• Commercially focused attitude.
• Commitment to confidentiality.
• Unwavering integrity.

Closing Date

30 July 2025

Should you not hear from us in 30 days, consider your application as unsuccessful.

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