General Counsel (UAEN)

A confidential UAE-based organization is seeking an experienced General Counsel to lead its legal function and provide strategic legal advice across a diverse business portfolio. This executive leadership role is responsible for overseeing corporate legal affairs, governance, litigation, regulatory compliance, contract management, and legal risk while partnering closely with executive leadership and the Board to support business objectives.

The successful candidate will have extensive experience in UAE law, corporate governance, commercial transactions, and regulatory matters, with the ability to align legal strategy with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and execute the organization's legal strategy in alignment with corporate objectives.
Serve as the principal legal advisor to executive leadership and the Board on corporate, commercial, regulatory, and governance matters.
Lead legal risk identification, mitigation strategies, and dispute management.
Oversee litigation, arbitration, and external legal counsel.
Review, draft, negotiate, and approve complex commercial agreements and legal frameworks.
Establish and maintain robust compliance and corporate governance frameworks.
Advise on corporate structuring, subsidiaries, mergers, acquisitions, and strategic initiatives where applicable.
Monitor changes in UAE legislation and assess their impact on business operations.
Lead legal due diligence for strategic business initiatives.
Manage relationships with regulatory authorities, government entities, and external stakeholders.
Oversee departmental budgeting, reporting, and legal operations.
Lead, mentor, and develop the legal team while supporting succession planning and organizational capability development.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in Law (LLB) or equivalent.
Valid Bar Association License or legal practicing qualification.
Minimum 15 years of legal experience.
Minimum 5 years in a senior leadership role leading legal teams.
Strong expertise in:
UAE Laws
Commercial & Corporate Law
Corporate Governance
Regulatory Compliance
Contract Negotiation
Litigation Management
Legal Risk Management
Board Advisory
Experience dealing with government authorities and regulators.
Excellent stakeholder management, negotiation, and communication skills.

Preferred Experience

Candidates with experience in one or more of the following will be highly regarded:

IPO transactions
Corporate restructuring
Securities regulations
Governance frameworks
Large diversified groups
Government or semi-government organizations