Head of Legal

Responsibilities:

Strategic Legal Advice:

• Provide expert legal advice to the CEO and executive team on all matters related to real estate development, acquisitions, financing, and corporate governance.
• Develop and implement legal strategies to mitigate risks and support the company’s strategic objectives.
• Stay abreast of legal developments affecting the real estate sector and advise on potential impacts to the business.

Legal Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with all relevant Nigerian laws and regulations, including zoning laws, environmental regulations, and building codes.
• Oversee the development and implementation of compliance programs and policies in the company.
• Manage regulatory compliance and filings with relevant government authorities such as the state land registries and CAC.
• Conduct internal audits to ensure adherence to legal standards and policies.
  

Contract Management:

• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, including sales agreements, purchase agreements, rental agreements, joint venture agreements, partnership agreements, contractor agreements, and MOUs.
• Manage the contract lifecycle to ensure all contractual obligations are met.
• Develop standard templates for contracts and ensure they reflect best practices and protect the company’s interests.
• Provide supervision and training to the legal team on contract management processes and legal implications.

Land and Property Documentation:

• Conduct thorough land checks and due diligence for potential acquisitions/partnerships.
• Manage the documentation process for land and property transactions at relevant government authorities.
• Coordinate with surveyors, valuers, and other professionals to ensure the integrity of property documentation.

Sales Documentation:

• Oversee the preparation and review of all sales documentation.
• Ensure all sales contracts protect the company's interests and comply with legal standards
• Collaborate with the sales team to resolve any legal issues that arise during and after transactions.

Contractor Agreements:

• Draft, review, and negotiate contractor agreements.
• Manage relationships with contractors and ensure compliance with all contract terms and conditions.
• Resolve any disputes arising from contractor agreements.

Litigation Management:

• Oversee and manage all litigation matters, including disputes with contractors, tenants, clients, partners, and regulatory bodies.
• Work with external counsel as needed to manage litigation risks and achieve favorable outcomes.
• Develop strategies for dispute resolution and minimize litigation exposure.

Corporate Governance:

• Advise the board of directors on corporate governance matters and ensure compliance with corporate governance standards.
• Oversee the preparation and maintenance of corporate records and filings.
• Ensure compliance with board policies and procedures.

Team Leadership:

• Lead and manage the legal department, including hiring, training, and evaluating legal staff.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performing team culture.
• Develop and mentor junior legal staff to build a strong, capable team.

Risk Management:

• Identify potential legal risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and implement risk management initiatives.
• Advise on risk management policies and ensure they are integrated into the company’s operations.

Requirements:

• Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from an accredited university.
• Called to the Nigerian Bar.
• Minimum of 7 years of legal experience, with at least 3 years in a senior legal role within the real estate industry in Nigeria.
• Proven track record in managing complex real estate transactions and legal issues.
• Strong knowledge of Nigerian property law, corporate law, commercial law, and regulatory compliance.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management abilities.
• Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Location: Lagos

Remuneration: NGN 800,000 - 1.3 Million Net