Legal Advisor – Lead Legal Function across Africa

About the role

You will lead the legal function for a fast‑growing African restaurant group, overseeing contracts, IP, litigation and compliance across multiple jurisdictions. This senior position offers full ownership of the legal department and direct influence on corporate strategy.

Key responsibilities

• Advise on commercial contracts, vendor agreements, IP, POPIA and corporate governance across markets.
• Handle leases, property purchases and cross‑country agreements, collaborating with local counsel as needed.
• Manage IP and trademark matters, including infringement issues and prosecution.
• Set litigation strategy and liaise with external counsel on active matters.
• Draft, review and negotiate complex agreements, such as finance and joint‑venture deals.
• Ensure compliance with the Companies Act, POPIA, NCA, CPA, LRA, BCEA and equivalent laws in other countries.

Required profile

• Bachelor of Laws and admission as an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
• Minimum 5 years post‑admission experience in commercial law.
• Working knowledge of company law, drafting corporate documents, leases, franchise and supply agreements.
• Experience with trademarks, IP, and litigation.
• Knowledge of credit and collateral/security agreements and labour law in RSA and other jurisdictions.
• Preferred: LLM or legal experience in quick‑service or retail sectors.

Required skills

What we offer

• Ownership of the legal department across multiple African countries.
• Direct exposure to corporate governance and strategy at leadership level.
• Broad scope covering contracts, IP, litigation and compliance—not a narrow specialism.