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.
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