Senior Legal Counsel - Mergers & Acquisitions

About the Role

Our client, a leading private equity firm with a strong focus on emerging markets, is actively seeking a highly accomplished Senior Legal Counsel specializing in M&A. This is a pivotal, fully remote role, offering the unique advantage of working from your preferred location while driving significant M&A activity. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing all legal facets of acquisitions, divestitures, and joint ventures, from deal origination and due diligence through to closing and post-completion integration. You will work closely with investment professionals, external counsel, and portfolio company management to structure, negotiate, and execute complex transactions. This position demands a deep understanding of corporate law, finance, and transactional structures, coupled with exceptional negotiation skills and a proven track record of successfully completing high-value deals. Join a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment where your expertise will directly contribute to the firm's strategic growth and investment success.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead legal due diligence processes for potential acquisitions and investments.
• Draft, negotiate, and finalize complex M&A transaction documents, including Share Purchase Agreements, Asset Purchase Agreements, and Joint Venture agreements.
• Advise on optimal deal structuring, financing arrangements, and regulatory compliance strategies.
• Manage legal aspects of portfolio company governance and operational integration post-acquisition.
• Oversee the work of external legal counsel and other advisors engaged on transactions.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable South African and international M&A regulations and securities laws.
• Provide strategic legal advice to the investment team and senior management on transactional matters.
• Conduct thorough legal risk assessments for proposed transactions.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including sellers, buyers, and regulatory bodies.
• Stay abreast of evolving market trends and legal developments impacting private equity M&A.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent law degree from a reputable institution.
• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa, with a minimum of 9 years of relevant post-admission experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in M&A transactions, preferably within private equity or investment banking.
• Strong command of corporate law, securities law, and cross-border transaction principles.
• Exceptional negotiation, drafting, and analytical skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple complex transactions concurrently in a remote setting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience with financial modeling and understanding of investment structures is highly desirable.
• Ability to work independently and demonstrate strong leadership qualities.
• Fluency in English is essential; additional languages are a plus.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers significant lifestyle flexibility and the ability to work from anywhere.
• Our client provides a highly competitive compensation package, including a substantial base salary, performance-based bonuses, and carried interest opportunities.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance are provided, along with a generous retirement savings plan.
• Employees benefit from direct exposure to high-impact global transactions and unparalleled career progression opportunities within a leading private equity firm.
• A culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and professional excellence is paramount.