Senior Corporate Counsel - Mergers & Acquisitions

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus potential

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Team environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Corporate Counsel specializing in Mergers & Acquisitions in Bloemfontein. You will lead complex transactions, draft and negotiate various corporate agreements, and advise senior management on governance and risk.

The role requires 8+ years in M&A/corporate law, admitted SA attorney or advocate, and a track record of end-to-end deal execution within a dynamic legal environment. A challenging, growth-focused setting awaits in the Free State.

Qualifications

• LLB degree from a recognized institution, admitted as SA attorney or advocate.
• Minimum 8 years of post-admission experience in M&A and corporate law.
• End-to-end M&A deal experience from inception to close.
• Strong knowledge of SA corporate and securities law.
• Excellent negotiation, drafting, and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects and meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder advisory skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all legal aspects of complex M&A transactions, including due diligence, negotiation, and closing.
• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of corporate agreements such as SPAs, IAPAs, and JV agreements.
• Provide expert legal advice to senior management on governance, compliance, and risk.
• Develop and implement legal strategies to support business objectives and growth.
• Conduct thorough legal research on statutes, regulations, and case law.
• Oversee post-acquisition integration and regulatory compliance.
• Manage external counsel and advisors involved in M&A.
• Advise on corporate structuring, reorganizations, and related documentation.
• Ensure adherence to South Africa laws and relevant international jurisdictions.

Skills

Mergers & Acquisitions

Corporate law

Negotiation

Drafting

Legal research

Stakeholder advisory

Risk management

Project management

Education

LLB degree

Tools

Legal research tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent legal services provider, is seeking an accomplished Senior Corporate Counsel with a specialization in Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) to join their dynamic team in Bloemfontein. This pivotal role offers an exceptional opportunity to engage with complex transactional work, advising on intricate legal matters pertaining to corporate structuring, acquisitions, divestitures, and joint ventures. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in safeguarding the company's interests and facilitating strategic growth initiatives. You will be an integral part of a collaborative legal department, working alongside experienced professionals who are dedicated to excellence and innovation in legal practice. This position is ideal for a legal professional looking to make a significant impact within a reputable organization in the Free State region, contributing to high-stakes corporate transactions that shape the future of the business landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all legal aspects of complex M&A transactions, including due diligence, negotiation, and closing.
• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of corporate agreements, such as share purchase agreements, asset purchase agreements, and joint venture agreements.
• Provide expert legal advice to senior management and business units on corporate governance, compliance, and risk management.
• Develop and implement legal strategies to support the company's business objectives and growth plans.
• Conduct thorough legal research and analysis on relevant statutes, regulations, and case law impacting corporate transactions.
• Oversee the legal aspects of post-acquisition integration and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Manage external legal counsel and other advisors engaged in M&A activities.
• Advise on corporate structuring, reorganizations, and related legal documentation.
• Ensure adherence to all applicable laws and regulations in South Africa and relevant international jurisdictions.

Requirements

• A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.
• Admitted as an Attorney or Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-admission experience, with a strong focus on M&A and corporate law gained at a reputable law firm or in-house legal department.
• Demonstrated experience in managing end-to-end M&A transactions, from inception through to completion.
• In-depth knowledge of corporate law, securities law, and contract law in South Africa.
• Exceptional negotiation, drafting, and analytical skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively advise stakeholders at all levels.
• Proficiency in legal research methodologies and tools.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, demanding legal environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience, including performance-based bonuses and comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning are actively encouraged.
• You will be part of a supportive and collegial work environment that values expertise and teamwork.
• This role also provides the chance to work on cutting-edge legal matters in the vibrant city of Bloemfontein, South Africa, contributing to impactful corporate strategies.
• Employees enjoy access to advanced legal resources and technology, fostering efficiency and effectiveness in their roles.
• Regular team-building activities and social events are organized to promote a strong sense of community within the legal department.
• There are also provisions for wellness programs aimed at supporting the overall health and well-being of our employees.