The Company
A global chemicals MNC is seeking an experienced Legal Counsel to support its Asia (excluding India & Australia) and Africa operations. You will work closely with regional leadership across multiple business units. This role is based in Singapore on a hybrid model (3 days in office) reporting into the regional general counsel.
Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary legal advisor for the company's activities across Asia (ex‑India & Australia) and Africa.
- Provide pragmatic, commercially focused legal support to stakeholders at all levels, from regional management to operational teams.
- Manage a broad range of legal matters, including corporate, commercial, finance, IP, IT, technology, real estate, trade, competition, M&A, and employment.
- Support technology and innovation initiatives, including negotiating collaboration agreements.
- Monitor regulatory developments and provide proactive guidance.
- Handle most matters independently without external counsel, engaging external advisers only where appropriate.
- Support global functions on data privacy, trademarks, and sanctions.
Requirements
- Admission to practice in at least one common‑law jurisdiction
- Approximately 8–10 years PQE with a mix of private practice and in‑house experience in a multinational environment.
- Strong business acumen and the ability to balance legal risks with commercial outcomes.
- Excellent drafting, communication, and negotiation skills.
- Ability to work autonomously in a lean regional legal team and manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced, matrixed environment.
- Comfortable working flexibly, with occasional evening calls with global teams.
- Mandarin/Chinese language capability is a significant advantage for coverage of the China market and contract negotiations