Overview
We are supporting a leading operator across the natural resources sector on the appointment of a Senior Commercial Counsel.
This is a high-impact role focused on commercial contracting and supply chain operations across international assets, within a fast-paced and commercially driven environment.
The position offers direct exposure to senior stakeholders and core business activities, requiring a lawyer who is commercially astute, resilient and able to navigate complex, high-pressure negotiations.
Role Responsibilities
* Lead on drafting, reviewing and negotiating a wide range of commercial and supply chain contracts, including:
* Procurement and supplier agreements
* Logistics and transportation contracts
* EPC / services agreements (as relevant)
* Act as a key legal partner to procurement, operations and project teams across West Africa
* Provide pragmatic, commercially focused advice in a fast-moving and deadline-driven environment
* Manage negotiations with counterparties across multiple jurisdictions, often under tight timelines and with challenging stakeholders
* Support broader legal and business initiatives as required, working closely with senior leadership
* Ensure contractual arrangements align with internal governance, risk management and compliance frameworks
Candidate Profile
We are keen to speak with lawyers who bring:
Experience
* 5+ PQE E&W Qualified lawyer (or equivalent common law jurisdiction)
* Strong background in commercial contracts / procurement / supply chain
* Experience working in:
* Mining / natural resources, or
* Energy / infrastructure / industrial sectors with complex supply chains
* Exposure to emerging markets, ideally West Africa
Skills & Attributes
* Fluent French (essential) — able to operate confidently in negotiations
* Highly commercial and solutions-oriented
* Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment
* Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to:
* Navigate robust / demanding personalities
* Maintain professionalism and composure under pressure
* Patient, calm and measured, particularly in challenging negotiations
* Culturally aware and able to operate effectively across international teams
This is a confidential and time-sensitive search, with a preference to move quickly for the right candidate.