Head of Legal

Our client is seeking a Legal Counsel to oversee all legal aspects of the Group’s operations. This pivotal role involves drafting and negotiating contracts, managing disputes, and offering strategic legal guidance to mitigate risks and support business growth. The Legal Counsel will also advise senior management on risk mitigation strategies and represent the Group in legal proceedings when required.

Key Responsibilities

1. Contract Management

• Drafts, reviews, and negotiates various contracts, including sales agreements, supplier contracts, lease agreements, and financing agreements.
• Ensures all contracts comply with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
• Maintains a structured and organized contract management system.

2. Dispute Resolution & Litigation Management

• Manages customer complaints, warranty claims, and disputes with the goal of minimizing legal risk.
• Oversees litigation matters in coordination with external legal counsel when necessary.
• Implements dispute resolution strategies such as mediation and arbitration.

3. Corporate Governance & Risk Management

• Ensures adherence to ethical business practices and corporate governance standards.
• Develops internal policies to mitigate legal risks and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Advises executives and board members on legal implications of strategic decisions and risk exposure.
• Assists in designing and maintaining compliance programs to prevent fraud, corruption, and unethical conduct.

4. Intellectual Property & Brand Protection

• Manages the Group’s trademarks, copyrights, and broader brand protection strategy.
• Reviews marketing materials for compliance with advertising regulations.
• Addresses counterfeit and fraudulent activities impacting the business.

5. Real Estate & Asset Management

• Oversees legal matters related to property acquisitions, lease agreements, and facility contracts.
• compliance with local zoning laws and real estate regulations.

6. Customer Relations & Consumer Law

• Guarantees adherence to fair consumer practices, particularly in relation to vehicle sales and financing.
• Handles legal issues tied to warranty claims, financing disputes, and product recalls.

7. Legal Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensures compliance with local laws, including automotive sales, consumer protection, and real estate regulations.
• Develops and implements legal procedures to reduce operational risk.
• Monitors legislative changes and provides guidance on required business adjustments.
• Manages legal disputes, including customer complaints, contract issues, and regulatory investigations.

8. Finance & Regulatory Compliance

• Ensures adherence to financial regulations affecting vehicle financing, lending, and credit agreements.
• Collaborates with the finance team to address legal concerns related to loans, leases, and warranties.
• Identifies and mitigates legal risks associated with consumer finance legislation.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential:

• Law degree from a recognized institution in Malta.
• Warrant to practice law in Malta.
• Fluency in both Maltese & English languages
• A minimum of 5 years of legal experience, ideally within the automotive, retail, or commercial sectors.
• Demonstrated experience in contract negotiation, regulatory compliance, and dispute resolution.

Preferred:

• Experience within the automotive or dealership industry.
• Familiarity with franchise law and vehicle regulatory frameworks.
• Exposure to commercial real estate legal matters.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of automotive regulation and legal compliance.
• Excellent skills in contract drafting and negotiation
• High-level problem-solving and risk assessment capabilities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proven ability to handle multiple legal matters concurrently.
• Demonstrates ethical judgment and integrity.

What Our Client Offers

• Competitive remuneration package
• Ongoing professional development and mentoring
• Flexible working arrangements
• Health insurance coverage
• Employee referral scheme
• Monthly employee treats
• Exclusive employee discounts