Legal Counsel

PURPOSE

We are a passionate philanthropic organization dedicated to investing in Africa’s human capital in order to build thriving individuals, communities and sustainable livelihoods. We seek a talented and mission-driven Legal Counsel to join our team. This unique role will combine strong legal expertise with a commitment to fostering a diverse and equitable workplace aligned with our values.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage board and committee meetings, ensuring proper documentation and record-keeping
• Advise the board on legal and governance matters
• Provide legal counsel on labor and employment law related to our staff.
• Draft and review contracts, policies, and other legal documents
• Lead the development and implementation of programs to promote gender equality within our organization and through our grant making activities.
• Provide legal counsel across the Group on a variety of matters, including partner contracts, litigation, corporate transactions, grant management, intellectual property, environmental law, proposed legislation, regulatory compliance, labour law and any other legal matters
• Drafting and reviewing a variety of contracts and negotiating the terms of such contracts to protect the interests of organisation and Group.
• Managing litigation matters across the Group; and ensuring effective administration and management of contracts and other legal documents.
• Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Work closely with internal stakeholders to provide guidance on legal risks, resolve disputes, and support the successful execution of capital projects and procurement initiatives.
• Support in the development of service level agreements for service delivery for all business units.
• Analysis and review legal agreements, legislation and documents for Management consent
• Review and advise management on the legal implications of external policies and procedures Provide all such other administrative and other secretarial duties as directed by the Country Director.
• Provides Board support through minuting and legal advisory.
• Liaising with external counsel as and when required.
• Provide quarterly reports to EXCO on lease agreements
• Provide training to HLF/Delta staff, Board and its committees as well as donor structures on relevant laws, codes and standards.
• Ensure that all HLF/Delta statutory documents including but not limited to title deeds are in place and up to date.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Education:

• A bachelor’s degree in law (LLB, BL) from a recognised institution and a valid license to practice law in Zimbabwe.
• Membership of a relevant professional body
• Minimum of 4 years of proven experience in a similar in-house legal role within an INGO environment or practising as a lawyer.
• Comprehensive understanding of Zimbabwean legal frameworks and regulations particularly in commercial law, corporate law, Gender and Advocacy, corporate governance, taxation and labour.

Specific Skills Requirements

• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple responsibilities and work efficiently in a dynamic and fast paced environment.