Lead, Legal Services (Contract Management)

About the Role

The Lead, Legal Services (Contract Management) is responsible for leading the contract management function by drafting, reviewing, negotiating, and administering commercial and operational contracts. This role protects the company's legal and commercial interests, ensures regulatory compliance, and supports business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice on contractual risks, obligations, and mitigation strategies
• Ensure contracts align with company policies, risk appetite, and regulatory requirements
• Partner with Procurement, Supply Chain, Sales, Marketing, HR, and Operations teams on contract-related matters
• Support commercial negotiations by providing legal input and risk assessment
• Act as key legal contact for external vendors, distributors, and business partners
• Identify contractual risks and recommend controls to minimize exposure
• Implement and manage contract lifecycle processes (creation, execution, renewal, termination)
• Handle contract disputes, claims, and renegotiations
• Liaise with external counsel where litigation or arbitration is required
• Drive continuous improvement in contract management systems and processes

Required Qualifications

• First Degree in Law or international equivalent
• LL.M or Postgraduate degree in Law
• Minimum 7 years' experience in corporate legal practice
• At least 3 years at a supervisory level focused on contract management
• Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) certification (advantageous)

Required Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of Nigerian contract law and commercial regulations
• Proven expertise in drafting and negotiating complex commercial contracts
• Understanding of procurement, supply chain, and distribution operations
• Innovation mindset
• Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills
• Excellent attention to detail and analytical thinking