Job Description
Job Summary
- The Legal Manager will oversee all legal aspects of the Group’s operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and safeguarding the organisation’s interests.
- The role requires a seasoned legal professional with strong experience in the production and manufacturing sector, capable of managing complex legal risks, contracts, and regulatory frameworks across multiple business units.
Key Responsibilities
Legal Advisory & Compliance
- Provide strategic legal advice to management on business operations, regulatory issues, and risk mitigation.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, including corporate, commercial, labour, environmental, and industry-specific regulations.
- Monitor and interpret changes in legislation affecting the Group’s operations.
Contract Management:
- Draft, review, negotiate, and manage a wide range of contracts (vendor agreements, supply contracts, distribution agreements, etc.).
- Ensure all contracts align with company policies and legal requirements.
- Maintain a centralised contract management system.
Regulatory & Government Relations
- Liaise with regulatory authorities and ensure timely filings and approvals.
- Manage relationships with government agencies relevant to manufacturing, agriculture, food processing, and pharmaceuticals.
- Oversee licensing and permit renewals across all subsidiaries.
Litigation & Dispute Resolution:
- Manage and oversee all litigation and dispute resolution matters involving the Group.
- Coordinate with external counsel and ensure effective representation.
- Develop strategies to minimise legal exposure and costs.
Corporate Governance
- • Ensure adherence to corporate governance best practices.
- • Support board activities, including preparation of board resolutions and documentation.
- • Maintain statutory records and ensure compliance with corporate filings.
Risk Management:
- Identify potential legal risks and develop mitigation strategies.
- Conduct legal risk assessments for new projects, partnerships, and investments.
- Support internal audit and compliance functions.
Employment & Labour Law
- Advise on employment matters, including contracts, disciplinary actions, and dispute resolution.
- Ensure compliance with labour laws and HR policies across all locations.
Intellectual Property:
- Manage and protect the Group’s intellectual property, including trademarks and proprietary processes.
- Handle IP registrations and enforcement where necessary.
Requirements
Education & Experience:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Law (LL. B)
- Call to the Nigerian Bar (BL) – mandatory
- A Master’s degree (LL.M) or relevant certification is an added advantage
- Minimum of 10 years’ post-call experience, with at least 5 years in a managerial role
- Strong background in the production, manufacturing, agribusiness, or FMCG sector
- Proven experience in contract negotiation, regulatory compliance, and litigation management
Key Competencies:
- Strong knowledge of Nigerian corporate and commercial law
- Excellent negotiation and drafting skills
- High level of integrity and professionalism
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Effective stakeholder management and communication skills
- Ability to work across multiple business units and manage competing priorities.