Principal Legal Counsel: Office of the General Counsel at MultiChoice

Key Performance Objectives

Strategy Development and Implementation

• Develop strategies to minimise the likelihood of litigation through proactive risk mitigation measures, alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, and effective contract management practices.
• Develop and deliver legal training programs for employees on key legal topics, compliance requirements, and risk management strategies.
• Foster a culture of legal awareness and knowledge within the organization to empower employees to make informed decisions aligned with legal and ethical standards.

Governance

• Draft framework to ensure the correct interpretation of, and compliance with policies, rules, regulations and procedures applicable to all staff.
• Manage legal risk, including managing litigation emanating from the business units and advising on commercial transactions that the business is involved in.
• Ensure compliance with corporate governance requirements, maintain corporate records, and support board meetings and resolutions.
• Develop and implement company policies and procedures in areas such as data protection, privacy, and ethics.

Legal Advisory

• Prepare submissions for relevant authorities on draft legislation.
• Prepare legal opinions on wide-ranging legal matters.
• Provide legal clarifications or assistance that may be required by the business.
• Assess the business needs vis-a-vis the legal team to ensure alignment to the business.
• Advise on all administrative and human resources management matters of the organization, including the drafting, review and amendment of employment contracts and other related legal documents, as well as advising on all legal issues relating to personnel matters, including staff benefits.

Legal Project Management

• Support mergers, acquisitions, and other strategic transactions by conducting due diligence, drafting agreements, and advising on legal implications.
• Lead other key projects requiring leadership by the GC’s office.
• Co-ordinate involvement by different parts of the business in key strategic transactions and projects.

Qualifications

• A law degree (master’s degree in law would be an advantage)
• Admitted legal practitioner of the High Court

Experience/Skills

• A minimum of 8 years of experience as a legal counsel, preferably in the media and entertainment industry or a related field.
• Proven experience in contract negotiation, intellectual property law, compliance, and risk management.
• Strong knowledge of media and entertainment law, including copyright, trademark, licensing, distribution, production, and regulatory compliance.
• Strong knowledge of corporate law, including mergers and acquisitions, securities regulations, and corporate governance
• Strong understanding of contract law principles, with the ability to draft, review, and negotiate complex agreements.
• Litigation management skills, including dispute resolution strategies.