Senior Corporate Counsel - Mergers & Acquisitions

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Stimulating work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Corporate Counsel to join the legal team in Midrand, Gauteng. The role focuses on advising on mergers, acquisitions, disposals, and joint ventures, with emphasis on corporate governance and regulatory compliance in South Africa.

You will draft and negotiate complex agreements, conduct due diligence, advise senior management, and coordinate with internal stakeholders and external counsel to drive successful deals.

Qualifications

• Must be a practicing attorney with SA registration.
• Strong drafting, negotiation and analytical skills.
• Deep knowledge of SA corporate law and regulatory frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on corporate transactions including mergers and acquisitions.
• Draft, review, and negotiate complex transaction documents and term sheets.
• Conduct due diligence for acquisitions and investments.
• Ensure regulatory compliance and governance for transactions.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external counsel to execute deals.
• Stay current on SA legislative changes affecting corporate law.

Skills

Corporate law

M&A

Contract drafting

Negotiation

Education

Admitted Attorney (SA)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the corporate landscape, is seeking an accomplished and strategic Senior Corporate Counsel to join their dynamic legal team in **Midrand, Gauteng**. This pivotal role will focus on advising on a wide range of corporate transactions, with a particular emphasis on mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, and joint ventures. The ideal candidate will possess a robust understanding of corporate law, contract negotiation, and regulatory compliance within the South African context. You will play a crucial part in shaping the legal strategy for complex transactions, ensuring that all deals align with the company's objectives and risk appetite. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work on high-profile deals and contribute significantly to the growth and success of the organization. The **Midrand** location provides a central base within Gauteng's economic hub, offering accessibility and a vibrant professional environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on all aspects of corporate transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, disposals, and strategic partnerships.
• Draft, review, and negotiate complex transaction agreements, term sheets, and ancillary documents.
• Conduct comprehensive legal due diligence for potential acquisitions and investments.
• Advise on corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and risk management related to transactions.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including business development, finance, and operations teams, to facilitate deal execution.
• Manage external counsel and other advisors engaged in transaction processes.
• Stay abreast of relevant legislative and regulatory changes affecting corporate law and transactions in **South Africa**.
• Assist in the integration of acquired businesses from a legal perspective.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with a minimum of 8 years post-qualification experience, specifically in corporate law and M&A.
• Proven track record of successfully managing and executing complex corporate transactions.
• In-depth knowledge of South African corporate law, company legislation, and regulatory frameworks (e.g., Companies Act, Takeover Regulation Panel rules).
• Exceptional drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Strong understanding of financial statements and business principles relevant to transactions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to advise senior management effectively.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Fluency in English is essential; proficiency in Afrikaans is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• A stimulating and collaborative work environment.
• Exposure to significant and impactful corporate deals.