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.