Legal Director (Confidential)

Job Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Legal Director to oversee the legal affairs for one of our clients, a leading National FMCG Conglomerate in the cigarette industry. The Legal Director will be responsible for providing strategic legal advice and guidance to senior management, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and managing all legal matters impacting on the company. The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of the tobacco industry and its regulatory landscape, exceptional leadership skills, and a track record of successfully managing legal teams.

Responsibilities:

1. Provide strategic legal advice and support to senior management on a broad range of legal matters, including regulatory compliance, commercial contracts, intellectual property, litigation, and employment law.
2. Monitor changes in legislation, regulations, and industry practices to proactively identify potential legal risks and provide recommendations to mitigate them.
3. Develop and implement legal strategies and policies to protect the company's interests and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
4. Review and negotiate complex commercial contracts, including distribution agreements, licensing agreements, and supplier contracts.
5. Oversee the management of litigation and disputes, working closely with external counsel when necessary, and represent the company's interests in negotiations and settlements.
6. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, sales, and regulatory affairs, to ensure compliance with advertising and marketing regulations and to support product launches.
7. Manage and develop the legal team, providing leadership, guidance, and mentorship to ensure high performance and professional development.
8. Conduct internal legal audits and risk assessments to identify areas of improvement and implement appropriate measures to mitigate legal risks.
9. Build and maintain relationships with external legal counsel, regulatory bodies, and industry associations.
10. Stay abreast of industry trends, legal developments, and best practices in the tobacco industry to provide strategic advice and anticipate potential legal issues.

Requirements:

1. Law degree from an accredited institution, with admission to the bar in the relevant jurisdiction.
2. Minimum of 10 years of experience in a legal role, preferably in the FMCG or tobacco industry.
3. In-depth knowledge of tobacco industry regulations and compliance requirements.
4. Strong experience in commercial contracts, litigation management, and regulatory affairs.
5. Proven ability to provide strategic legal advice to senior management and work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
6. Excellent leadership skills with the ability to effectively manage and develop a legal team.
7. Outstanding analytical and problem-solving abilities with a keen attention to detail.
8. Strong communication and negotiation skills, both written and verbal.
9. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
10. High ethical standards and integrity in all aspects of work.