Senior Mergers & Acquisitions Associate

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance bonus

Career development

Job summary

Bloemfontein Law Firm seeks a Senior M&A Associate to lead complex transactions in the corporate practice. The role involves advising on structuring, due diligence, and closing deals for high-value clients in Bloemfontein and the Free State.

The ideal candidate has 6+ years PQE, strong negotiation skills, and a proven record in managing client relationships. This is a high-responsibility role within a supportive, professional firm environment.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney with at least 6 years PQE in M&A and corporate law.
• Experience managing and closing complex M&A transactions.
• Expert drafting and negotiating M&A agreements and related docs.
• Strong SA corporate law knowledge including the Companies Act.
• Excellent analytical, negotiation and client-relations skills.
• Able to work under pressure with tight deadlines; leadership ability.

Responsibilities

• Manage and execute a variety of M&A transactions end-to-end.
• Advise on corporate structuring, shareholder agreements and governance.
• Conduct due diligence for acquisitions and investments.
• Draft, review and negotiate term sheets and merger agreements.
• Liaise with clients, opposing counsel and advisors throughout deals.
• Provide regulatory compliance guidance for M&A activities.
• Mentor junior associates and support staff.
• Contribute to business development and client relationships.

Skills

Negotiation

Analytical

Problem solving

Client relations

Leadership

Education

LL.B

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading corporate law firm in Bloemfontein, Free State, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Associate to join their dynamic corporate law department. This role is crucial for managing and executing complex M&A transactions, advising clients on corporate structuring, and ensuring legal compliance throughout the deal process. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional legal acumen, strong negotiation skills, and a proven ability to manage client relationships effectively. This is a unique opportunity to work on high-value transactions within a supportive and professional environment, contributing to the firm’s continued success and growth in the Bloemfontein region. We are seeking a dedicated legal professional eager to take on significant responsibility and advance their career in corporate law.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and execute a variety of M&A transactions, including due diligence, drafting and negotiating sale agreements, and closing procedures.
• Advise clients on corporate structuring, shareholder agreements, and corporate governance matters.
• Conduct comprehensive legal due diligence for potential acquisitions and investments.
• Draft, review, and negotiate complex legal documents, including term sheets, letters of intent, and merger agreements.
• Liaise with clients, opposing counsel, financial advisors, and other stakeholders throughout the transaction process.
• Provide legal advice on regulatory compliance related to M&A activities.
• Identify and assess legal risks associated with transactions and propose appropriate solutions.
• Mentor and supervise junior associates and legal support staff involved in M&A deals.
• Contribute to business development efforts by identifying new opportunities and building client relationships.
• Stay current with legal developments and market trends in M&A and corporate law.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney with a minimum of 6 years of post-qualification experience, with a significant focus on M&A and corporate law.
• Demonstrated experience in managing and closing complex M&A transactions.
• Expertise in drafting and negotiating M&A agreements and related documents.
• Strong understanding of South African corporate law, including the Companies Act.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and negotiation skills.
• High level of professionalism and strong client relationship management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple deadlines effectively.
• Strong team player with excellent communication and leadership abilities.
• LL.B degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.
• Adherence to ethical standards and commitment to client confidentiality.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including a base salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits such as medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• This role provides significant opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a leading firm in Bloemfontein, Free State.
• Employees benefit from working on significant and impactful transactions, gaining exposure to a diverse client base.
• The firm culture is professional, collaborative, and supportive, fostering a positive work environment.
• This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced M&A lawyer to further their career in a prominent legal practice.