General Counsel

About the role:

Provide legal expertise and counseling to the management of Ports International Operating Company (PIOC) & Abu Dhabi Ports Group legal in a timely and cost effective manner while serving the best interests and comply with applicable laws and regulations.

Core Responsibilities:

• Provide legal expertise and strategic guidance, consultation, and support to the management on legal and regulatory issues and to develop legal strategies and minimize legal risks for the PIOC and Abu Dhabi Ports Group.
• Oversee delivery of all legal services and resources in Unit/Cluster to ensure maximum protection of legal rights and maintenance of its operations.
• Draft, review and update legal policies, procedures, contracts, leases, and other legal documents to ensure maintaining an effective legal support across the Cluster and AD Ports Group.
• Represent, or oversee the representation of Abu Dhabi Ports Group/Cluster, in judicial proceedings and government/third party negotiations and review court decisions, legislation and regulatory rulings that may affect Abu Dhabi Ports Group/Cluster.
• Ensure Abu Dhabi Ports Group/Cluster management and board members are kept apprised of any legal changes that affect the company or the industry.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with relevant local and international authorities.
• Ensure that the Abu Dhabi Ports/Cluster/relevant JV board meetings are held in accordance with all applicable laws, members are provided with all the required legal information and board decisions or resolutions are accurately drafted and recorded.
• Advice on and manage, as applicable, all claims, disputes, arbitrations and similar cases.
• Oversee the drafting, review, negotiation and update of legal reports, correspondence, contracts, agreements, and other legal governance documents.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Law or equivalent LLM/PHD from a recognized University
• High level of proficiency in English. Proficiency in Arabic is an asset.
• A minimum of 15 years of experience in a similar role
• Proven experience in law practicing or general counseling in contracts, constructions, projects and relevant industries.
• Extensive knowledge of UAE legal law.
• Ability to develop legal strategy and objectives.
• Strong negotiation and relationship management skills.
• Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills to identify and address complex challenges and opportunities and make data-driven decisions.
• Cultural sensitivity and adaptability.
• Strong analytical and research skills to effectively provide legal solutions.
• Exceptional leadership skills with a track record of developing high-performance teams.