We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Commercial & Construction Project Legal Manager to join our senior management team.
This role is critical in ensuring legal compliance, mitigating risks, and managing claims throughout the lifecycle of medium to large-scale construction projects.
The position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge renewable energy and civil infrastructure projects.
Key Responsibilities: Provide expert legal guidance throughout project lifecycles, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and industry standards.
Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, including EPC, O&M, DA, and ICA agreements.
Identify, mitigate, and manage legal and contractual risks for construction and operational activities.
Prepare, submit, and resolve claims and contractual disputes through mediation, adjudication, or arbitration, and facilitate litigation.
Advise on securing permits, licenses, and approvals.
Oversee the entire contract lifecycle from tender to close-out, maintaining a centralized repository of legal documents.
Advise on and manage insurance policies, claims processes, and compliance with contractual obligations.
Act as the primary legal liaison for stakeholders, contractors, and clients, providing clear guidance on contractual matters.
Maintain accurate legal records and prepare reports on risks and compliance for senior management.
Promote ethical practices and address allegations of unethical or illegal conduct.
Collaborate across departments to align legal strategies with project and organizational goals.
Minimum Qualifications & Experience: Education: LLB, BA (Law), or BCom (Law), with articles completed and admitted as an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
Experience: Minimum 8 to 10 years of legal experience, with at least 5 years in construction of multi-disciplinary and EPC/Turnkey projects.
Extensive experience drafting and negotiating EPC contracts.
Strong knowledge of internationally recognized Conditions of Contract (e.g., FIDIC, NEC, JBCC, GCC).
Skills & Attributes: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to manage multiple complex transactions under pressure.
Familiarity with mediation, adjudication, arbitration, and conciliation processes is an advantage.
Proficient in risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
Knowledge of REIPPPP projects and legal frameworks is highly desirable.