Job Description

• The General Counsel is responsible for providing legal advice and counsel to the company and its subsidiaries on a wide range of legal matters, including corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property, employment law and litigation.
• The General Counsel also oversees the company’s legal department and is responsible for ensuring that the company complies with all applicable laws and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and guidance to the holding company and its subsidiaries on a wide range of legal matters, with a focus on agricultural value chains.
• Draft, review, and negotiate various legal documents, including contracts, agreements, and policies.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards.
• Manage and resolve legal disputes, including litigation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution.
• Conduct legal research and stay updated on legal developments in the agricultural sector.
• Develop and implement effective legal strategies to protect the company’s interests and minimize legal risks.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to provide legal support for business initiatives and projects.
• Develop and deliver legal training programs to enhance legal awareness within the organization.
• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, agreements, and legal documents, including vendor contracts, leases, and employment agreements.
• Ensure that contracts and agreements adhere to legal requirements and protect the organization’s interests.
• Conduct legal research and analysis on relevant issues to support decision-making and strategy development.
• Stay updated on changes in laws, regulations, and legal precedents that may impact the organization.
• Monitor and manage the company’s intellectual property portfolio.
• Oversee the work of external legal counsel, as necessary.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB) from a recognized university.
• Must be called to the Nigerian Bar (BL) and possess a valid practicing license.
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant legal experience, preferably in the agricultural sector or a related field.
• In-depth knowledge of Nigerian laws and regulations related to agriculture, land use, contracts, intellectual property, and corporate governance.
• Strong understanding of the entire agricultural value chain, from primary production to processing and marketing.
• Proven experience in providing legal counsel in a corporate setting, with exposure to diverse legal issues.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Ability to communicate complex legal concepts in a clear and concise manner.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Experience in managing legal disputes and engaging with external stakeholders, including regulatory authorities, government agencies, and community representatives.

Other Qualifications, Certifications, Professional Memberships:

• Membership in the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) or a relevant professional body is desirable.
• Additional certifications or specialized training in agricultural law or related fields would be advantageous.