Legal Counsel – (LRC-L5.1) needed at Zutari

About the role:

• The Legal Counsel will be responsible for providing comprehensive legal support, including contract reviews, contract negotiations, claims management, and client interactions. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in legal advisory services, strong business acumen and be fluent in English.

Role responsibilities:

• Contract Reviews: Review, draft, and revise a variety of contracts, including consultancy and sub-consultancy agreements, non-disclosure and joint venture agreements, collaborating with stakeholders to address and resolve contract related issues and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Legal Advisory: Provide legal advice to internal clients on contracts and related matters. Support the Legal Team as needed.
• Risk Mitigation and Compliance: Ensure that contract contains the appropriate minimum content as expected by Zutari to mitigate risk. Participate in periodic compliance audits related to legal matters. Support the Risk Team as needed.   
• Contract Negotiation: Participate in contract negotiations with clients and business partners to secure favorable terms and mitigate risks.
• Claims Management: Handle claims and disputes, providing strategic legal advice to mitigate potential liabilities and resolve conflicts efficiently.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Work closely with business development, procurement, finance, and project management teams to align legal and commercial objectives. Train and educate internal teams on contract terms, legal risks, and company policies to ensure consistent understanding and application.
• Legal Research: Conduct legal research to stay updated on relevant laws, regulations, and industry practices, and apply this knowledge to advise the business.
• Compliance: Ensure that all contracts and business activities comply with local and international laws, regulations, and company policies.
• Documentation: Maintain organized records of all contracts and related correspondence. Support the Legal Team in the development and review of contract templates, policies, and procedures to reflect best practices and legal requirements. Stay informed of evolving laws and industry regulations that impact the business, especially in international jurisdictions where the company operates.

Minimum requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in law. An admitted legal professional.  A business law or contract management qualification will be advantageous.
• 2- 3 year’s relevant experience in a similar role. Minimum of 1 year post article experience.
• Fluency in English is essential, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of contract law and commercial agreements.
• Proven experience in negotiating and drafting contracts.
• Familiarity with claims management and dispute resolution processes.
• Proficiency in legal research tools and software.
• Knowledge of industry standard contracts (FIDIC, NEC).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent negotiation and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
• High level of professionalism and ethical conduct.