Our client, a globally renowned consumer goods enterprise spanning diverse product categories, seeks a skilled Legal Assistant to enhance their team based in This, Kenya.
JOB PURPOSE:
The position is designed to facilitate proactive and timely delivery of legal counsel to the organization’s operations in Kenya while effectively implementing and executing the Legal Functional strategy and objectives. The role involves providing comprehensive legal guidance to the Kenyan entities on matters related to commercial, operational, governance, and regulatory aspects of the business.
We are seeking a highly motivated professional to assume the following key duties and responsibilities:
Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance operational efficiency and drive business growth. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with organizational objectives and foster innovation. Oversee project execution, monitor progress, and deliver results in accordance with established timelines and budgets. Analyze performance metrics to identify trends, mitigate risks, and recommend data-driven solutions. Maintain strong stakeholder relationships through clear communication and proactive engagement. Ensure compliance with industry regulations and internal policies while upholding the highest standards of professionalism.
Operational/Professional/Business Responsibilities: Executes key business operations with precision and efficiency, ensuring adherence to professional standards. Manages workflows to optimize productivity while maintaining high-quality deliverables. Conducts thorough data analysis to inform strategic decisions and drive organizational growth. Collaborates with cross-functional teams to align business objectives and enhance operational synergy. Identifies process improvements to streamline operations, reduce inefficiencies, and elevate overall performance. Maintains compliance with industry regulations, organizational policies, and ethical guidelines to uphold professional integrity.
Assist in formulating and implementing the Legal department’s strategic initiatives to ensure alignment with organizational objectives.
Oversee and analyze Kenya’s legislative landscape to ensure the business remains fully compliant with all relevant legal obligations.
To ensure full compliance, develop an in-depth knowledge of regulatory issues and the governing framework within which the organization functions, and lead the creation of strategic solutions that empower the business to proactively address and manage regulatory limitations.
Management of all litigation initiated by or against the business, as directed by the Head of Legal, Kenya, encompasses the development and implementation of case strategies.
Provide assistance to the Head of Legal, Kenya, in overseeing entity management and maintaining adherence to robust corporate governance standards across the client’s entities in the country.
Engage collaboratively in multifaceted business projects and strategic initiatives across departments to evaluate, oversee, and proactively identify potential risks, thereby safeguarding against legal exposure while advancing organizational goals.
Draft, negotiate, and finalize contractual agreements while establishing standardized documentation formats to enhance operational efficiencies within the Legal sub-function.
Perform essential administrative functions within the department to maintain the availability of necessary resources, ensure the seamless flow of information, and keep records current.
To enhance the control environment within the Legal department in alignment with organizational strategy.
Proactively collaborate with various teams and departments to ensure seamless information flow and alignment among all stakeholders while addressing shared challenges.
Demonstrates strong leadership qualities, effectively guiding and motivating teams toward achieving organizational goals. Possesses the ability to inspire and engage others, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment. Exhibits sound decision-making skills, demonstrating judgment and accountability in key situations. Encourages professional growth and development among team members through mentorship and constructive feedback.
Facilitate the development, execution, and attainment of the Legal sub-function’s strategic plans and objectives, ensuring full alignment with the overarching business strategy.
Effectively communicating the strategic significance and business relevance of this position’s area of responsibility to stakeholders is essential.
Develop strategic initiatives and proposals that align with organizational strategy and core values, ensuring the legal function is deeply integrated into business operations and serves as both a risk management leader and trusted advisor.
Identify and cultivate relationships with internal and external stakeholders relevant to your areas of responsibility to enhance the efficacy of legal initiatives.
Consistently develop and refine systems and operational workflows with the aim of enhancing efficiency and minimizing expenditures.
Qualifications, Experience, and Competencies:
Candidates must possess a relevant academic background, coupled with demonstrated professional experience in the specified field. Proficiency in key technical or industry-specific skills is essential, along with strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication abilities. Prior to work experience in a related role is highly desirable, and familiarity with relevant software, tools, or methodologies is required. Additionally, the ability to collaborate effectively in team-oriented environments, manage priorities, and adapt to evolving challenges is critical. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and a commitment to continuous learning are also valued attributes for this position.
A law degree from an accredited institution, coupled with expertise in delivering legal counsel to internal stakeholders.
At least three to four years of post-qualification legal experience is required.
Preferred candidates will possess a minimum of two to three years of experience in high-pressure legal environments.
Skilled in overseeing and coordinating legal proceedings, with a proven track record in managing litigation cases from inception to resolution. Demonstrated ability to navigate complex legal processes, ensuring compliance with procedural requirements and deadlines while optimizing outcomes for clients or organizations.
Preferred candidates will possess prior experience in corporate secretarial practices and board-related affairs, particularly those certified by the Chartered Professional Secretaries of Kenya (CPSK).
A comprehensive understanding of pertinent local substantive and procedural legal frameworks governing key operational domains is essential, including Commercial Law, labor regulations, land-related legislation, factory and manufacturing compliance standards, and Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) requirements.
Exceptional proficiency in negotiation, as well as outstanding written and verbal communication abilities, are essential.
Demonstrates exceptional strategic thinking, analytical prowess, and sound decision-making capabilities.
Demonstrates strong independent decision-making skills, fosters leadership abilities, and collaborates effectively with colleagues and senior leadership.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
Experience Required
3 - 4 years