Commercial Legal Associate

Role Description

We are seeking a commercially minded mid-level Commercial Legal Associate (4–6 years post-call) to support the Group Head of Legal in providing legal advisory services across our fashion manufacturing and retail operations. The ideal candidate will have trained at a reputable corporate/commercial law firm in Nigeria and possess strong experience advising on commercial transactions, contracts, and general corporate matters.

This role requires a lawyer who is practical, detail-oriented, and able to work closely with business stakeholders in a fast-paced, consumer-facing environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. Commercial & Contract Advisory-Draft, review, negotiate, and manage a wide range of commercial agreements, including:

• Supply and procurement contracts
• Manufacturing and sourcing agreements
• Distribution and retail agreements
• Franchise, licensing, and brand collaboration agreements
• NDAs, service agreements, and consultancy contracts·
• Provide legal advice on contract interpretation, risk allocation, and dispute mitigation.

2. Corporate & Regulatory Support-Support corporate governance matters, including board resolutions, corporate filings, and statutory compliance.

• Advise on Nigerian commercial, company, and regulatory laws impacting manufacturing and retail operations.
• Assist with regulatory engagements relating to trade, consumer protection, advertising, and product compliance.

3. Business Support

• Partner with internal teams (procurement, operations, finance, sales, and marketing) to deliver practical legal solutions aligned with business objectives.
• Identify legal risks and propose commercially sound mitigation strategies.
• Support expansion initiatives, new store openings, and strategic partnerships.

4. Dispute & Risk Management

Assist in managing pre-litigation matters and liaise with external counsel on disputes when required.

Support contract enforcement and resolution of commercial disagreements.

5. External Counsel & Documentation Management

Work with and supervise external counsel on specific transactions or matters.

Maintain and improve contract templates, precedents, and legal processes.