Head of Legal

Job Description

Our client is a leading independent telecommunications infrastructure provider, operating extensively across Africa and the Middle East. They specialise in owning and managing telecom tower assets, offering innovative and sustainable infrastructure solutions to mobile network operators and technology partners. With a strong presence in multiple African countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the organisation is committed to driving digital transformation and connectivity across the continent.

Recruitment Summit: The selected candidate must be available to attend the Recruitment Summit in London on the 8th and 9th of May (exact venue to be confirmed).

The Head of Legal will oversee all legal affairs for the company’s operations in the DRC. This senior leadership role requires a seasoned legal professional with extensive experience in corporate law, regulatory compliance, contract management, and risk mitigation within the telecommunications or infrastructure sectors. The successful candidate will provide strategic legal guidance to the executive team, ensure compliance with local and international laws, and protect the company’s interests in all legal matters.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Legal Strategy & Compliance – Develop and implement legal strategies aligned with business objectives while ensuring regulatory compliance.
  • Contract Management – Oversee contract drafting, review, and negotiation to protect company interests.
  • Regulatory Affairs – Maintain relationships with regulators and ensure compliance with legal requirements.
  • Risk Management – Identify legal risks and implement mitigation strategies.
  • Dispute Resolution – Manage legal disputes, including litigation and arbitration, in the company’s best interests.
  • Corporate Governance – Ensure adherence to governance standards and support the board of directors.
  • Team Leadership – Lead and mentor the legal team, fostering excellence and integrity.

Personal Specification

Qualifications & Experience Summary

  • Education – Bachelor’s degree in Law (Master’s degree or equivalent legal qualification preferred).
  • Experience – Minimum 10 years of legal experience, including 5 years in a senior legal role in telecommunications, infrastructure, or related sectors.
  • Regulatory Knowledge – Strong understanding of the legal and regulatory landscape in the DRC, including telecom laws and corporate governance.
  • Language Proficiency – Fluent in French and English.

Hard & Soft Skills

  • Analytical Skills – Ability to assess complex legal issues and provide practical solutions.
  • Communication – Strong verbal and written communication skills to explain legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders.
  • Leadership – Proven ability to lead and manage teams, fostering talent development and collaboration.
  • Negotiation – Skilled in negotiation with the ability to influence and secure favorable outcomes.
  • Integrity – High ethical standards, commitment to transparency and corporate governance.
  • Adaptability – Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while managing multiple priorities.

Benefits & Employee Value Proposition (EVP)

  • Talent Development – Investment in employee growth, including Lean Six Sigma training.
  • Career Growth – Strong promotion-from-within culture with clear career progression pathways.
  • Diversity & Inclusion – Commitment to bridging the gender gap, targeting 30% female representation.
  • Multicultural Environment – Values of partnership, integrity, and excellence in a diverse workplace.
  • Sustainability & Community Support – Strong focus on sustainable practices and community engagement.

Employer

Sector

Telecommunications

Function

Legal

Country

Job Level

Executive

Salary

Competitive