Director Legal Counsel

About the role

The Director Legal Counsel will lead the company’s legal function, overseeing investigations, dispute resolution, corporate transactions and compliance across the United Arab Emirates. This senior position reports to senior management and ensures legal risks are identified, assessed and mitigated.

Key responsibilities

• Assess and manage internal investigations related to fraud, misconduct and compliance violations, providing guidance and overseeing incident response.
• Lead and coordinate litigation, arbitration and dispute resolution matters, including civil, criminal, commercial and employment disputes.
• Engage and manage external counsel, control costs and align legal strategy with business objectives.
• Monitor UAE legal and regulatory developments and advise business units on implications.
• Prepare and submit documents to UAE courts and the Accountability Authority, ensuring proper provisioning with Finance.
• Lead corporate and M&A transactions, drafting and reviewing incorporation documents, share purchase agreements, shareholders’ agreements and related materials.
• Coordinate legal due‑diligence, manage external advisors and mitigate transaction risks.
• Advise on corporate financing agreements, security documents and related commercial matters.
• Ensure corporate governance and internal compliance frameworks align with UAE laws and regulations.

Required profile

• Extensive experience leading litigation, arbitration and dispute resolution in the UAE.
• Strong background in corporate, M&A and financing transactions.
• Proven ability to manage external legal counsel and control legal budgets.
• Deep knowledge of UAE legal and regulatory environment.
• Excellent analytical, communication and stakeholder‑management skills.

Required skills