Office of the General Counsel

About the role

We are seeking a senior legal professional to join the Office of the General Counsel at Chery SA, providing strategic legal support across the organisation to ensure compliance, manage risks and protect the company’s legal interests.

Key responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, tax and industry regulations.
• Monitor local and international automotive regulations.
• Draft, review and negotiate contracts with suppliers, dealers, logistics providers and customers.
• Advise the board and senior management on governance matters.
• Manage legal disputes involving employees, suppliers, customers or regulators.
• Protect patents, trademarks, designs and trade secrets; address counterfeit parts and IP infringement.
• Identify legal and regulatory risks and advise on mitigation strategies.
• Support investigations into safety incidents and handle vehicle defect, recall and warranty claims.
• Ensure compliance with data protection laws such as POPIA.
• Liaise with government departments, regulatory authorities and manage licensing and permits.

Required profile

• LLB degree or equivalent legal qualification from a recognised institution.
• Admission as an Attorney or Advocate (advantageous).
• Minimum 5–8 years post‑qualification legal experience, preferably in corporate, manufacturing or automotive environments.
• Experience in corporate governance, contract drafting and negotiation, compliance and litigation management.
• Knowledge of South African legislation including POPIA, labour, company, consumer protection and commercial law.
• Proven ability to work with senior management, external counsel, regulators and business stakeholders.