Senior Legal Advisor - Mining & Resources

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Legal Advisor for a leading mining and resources client near Polokwane, Limpopo. The role demands deep expertise in mining, environmental, corporate law, and contract law, providing strategic legal counsel to senior management and operations while ensuring regulatory compliance and risk mitigation.

Drafting and negotiating mining contracts, managing due diligence for transactions, liaising with regulators, and leading governance initiatives within a dynamic

Qualifications

• LLB degree from a reputable university.
• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
• Minimum 7 years post-qualification experience in mining, resources, or environmental law.
• Proven ability to draft and negotiate complex mining contracts and corporate transactions.
• Strong governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on mining, environmental regulations and related statutes.
• Draft, review, and negotiate mining contracts, JV agreements and service agreements.
• Ensure compliance with relevant mining legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Advise on environmental impact assessments, permitting and approvals.
• Manage legal aspects of exploration, development and operations of mining projects.
• Assist with corporate transactions, mergers and acquisitions within the mining sector.
• Represent the company in legal proceedings, arbitrations and negotiations.
• Conduct due diligence for investments and partnerships.
• Develop and implement legal policies and risk management strategies.
• Liaise with government departments and regulatory authorities.

Skills

Mining law

Environmental law

Contract drafting

Regulatory compliance

Negotiation

Corporate governance

Education

LLB degree

Job description

About the Role

A major player in the mining and resources sector, with extensive operations near Polokwane, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Legal Advisor to join their dedicated legal team. This pivotal role requires extensive expertise in mining law, environmental law, corporate law, and contractual agreements pertinent to the natural resources industry. The successful candidate will provide strategic legal counsel to senior management and operational teams, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements and mitigating legal risks associated with complex mining activities. Our client is committed to sustainable practices and responsible resource development, seeking a legal professional who aligns with these values. This position offers unparalleled opportunities to engage with significant legal challenges within a vital South African industry. The role is based in the vicinity of Polokwane, Limpopo, and offers a chance to contribute to the legal framework of a leading resource company. We are looking for a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of the mining landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on mining law, environmental regulations, and related legislation.
• Draft, review, and negotiate mining contracts, joint venture agreements, and service agreements.
• Ensure compliance with the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA) and other relevant statutes.
• Advise on environmental impact assessments, permitting, and regulatory approvals.
• Manage legal aspects of exploration, development, and operational phases of mining projects.
• Assist with corporate transactions, mergers, and acquisitions within the mining sector.
• Represent the company in legal proceedings, arbitrations, and negotiations.
• Conduct legal due diligence for potential investments and partnerships.
• Develop and implement legal policies and risk management strategies.
• Liaise with government departments, regulatory authorities, and other stakeholders.

Requirements

• LLB degree from a reputable university.
• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
• A minimum of 7 years of post-qualification experience, with a substantial focus on mining, resources, or environmental law.
• In-depth knowledge of South African mining legislation, environmental law, and related regulations.
• Proven experience in drafting and negotiating complex commercial and contractual agreements within the resources sector.
• Strong understanding of corporate governance and transactional work in the mining industry.
• Excellent legal research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional negotiation and communication abilities.
• Ability to work strategically and provide practical legal solutions.
• Experience in litigation or alternative dispute resolution within the sector is advantageous.
• Committed to high ethical standards and professional integrity.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, commensurate with the seniority of the role and extensive experience.
• Comprehensive benefits include medical aid, a substantial provident fund contribution, and performance-related bonuses.
• Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training and attendance at industry forums, are readily available.
• The company fosters a challenging yet supportive work environment near Polokwane, emphasizing safety and sustainability.