Legal Counsel - Petroleum Trading - LLB

Key Responsibilities:

1. Contract Negotiation and Drafting:

- Draft, review, and negotiate contracts related to the buying and selling of petroleum products, including supply agreements, joint venture contracts, purchase and sale agreements, and transportation contracts.

- Ensure all contracts comply with applicable regulations and best practices in the energy industry.

- Address specific risks and contingencies associated with petroleum trading, such as price fluctuations, delivery timelines, and compliance with international trade laws.

2. Regulatory Compliance:

- Advise the company on compliance with international, national, and local laws and regulations governing petroleum trading and the energy sector.

- Stay up to date on regulations concerning environmental standards, health and safety, customs laws, and trade sanctions affecting the oil and gas industry.

- Ensure that the company's operations meet environmental compliance standards (e.g., carbon emissions, waste management, and spill prevention).

3. Risk Management:

- Provide legal guidance on the legal risks associated with trading, shipping, and storing petroleum products.

- Advise on strategies for mitigating risks related to pricing volatility, regulatory changes, and geopolitical instability in key trading regions.

- Analyze and provide counsel on insurance requirements and dispute resolution mechanisms, particularly concerning cargo damage, breach of contract, and force majeure events.

4. Dispute Resolution and Litigation:

- Represent the company in legal disputes involving contracts, transactions, or regulatory violations.

- Manage and resolve disputes with suppliers, customers, contractors, and other stakeholders, including mediation, arbitration, and litigation.

- Advise on strategies for alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to avoid prolonged legal battles and minimize costs.

5. International Trade and Customs Law:

- Advise on the complexities of international trade laws, including tariffs, customs regulations, and export/import controls related to petroleum and petroleum products.

- Assist with understanding and complying with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), the UK Bribery Act, and other anti-corruption and anti-money laundering regulations in international transactions.

6. Corporate Governance:

- Ensure that corporate policies and practices in the trading business adhere to the highest standards of corporate governance, transparency, and accountability.

- Support the creation and implementation of internal controls and ethical business practices to mitigate legal exposure.

7. Transaction Structuring and Financing:

- Advise on the structuring of complex transactions in the petroleum trading sector, including joint ventures, mergers, acquisitions, and other financial arrangements.

- Provide legal support on financing, investment agreements, and project finance related to the exploration, production, and transportation of petroleum products.

8. Environmental and Health & Safety Issues:

- Advise the company on laws and regulations regarding environmental impact, including oil spills, pollution, and climate change-related risks.

- Guide the company on best practices to mitigate the environmental impact of trading activities and ensure compliance with environmental protection laws.

9. Client and Stakeholder Communication:

- Communicate effectively with senior management, external stakeholders, and regulatory bodies on legal issues and strategic decisions.

- Prepare legal memoranda, reports, and briefings to keep leadership informed on regulatory developments and legal matters affecting the business.

10. Policy Advocacy:

- Represent the company's interests in discussions with regulators, policymakers, and industry bodies.

- Stay informed on legislative changes and developments in energy law, advocating for policies that align with the company's business goals.

Required Skills:

- Industry-Specific Knowledge: In-depth understanding of petroleum trading, international energy law, trade regulations, and the specific challenges facing the energy sector.

- Contract Negotiation: Expertise in negotiating complex, high-value contracts, and structuring agreements that minimize risk and maximize profitability.

- Regulatory Expertise: Comprehensive knowledge of the regulatory landscape governing petroleum and energy markets, including environmental, safety, and trade regulations.

- Risk Management: Ability to identify and mitigate legal risks in highly volatile and regulated markets.

- Dispute Resolution: Experience in handling disputes, including litigation, arbitration, and mediation.

- Commercial Acumen: Understanding the commercial dynamics of the petroleum trading business, including price volatility, market trends, and the importance of strategic partnerships.

- Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills for legal documentation, negotiation, and corporate governance.

Education and Qualifications:

- Education: A Juris Doctor (JD) or LLB degree from an accredited law school.

- Experience: At least 5-7 years of experience in energy law, corporate law, or petroleum trading law.

- Licensing: Admitted to practice law in the relevant jurisdiction (must hold a valid bar membership).

- Certifications: Certifications in energy law, international trade, or contract management (e.g., CLM, CCLS) may be preferred.

Working Conditions:

- The role typically involves working in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment with frequent interactions with senior management, traders, and external stakeholders.

- The position may require travel to various domestic and international locations for meetings, conferences, or legal proceedings.

- While the core workweek is generally standard, irregular hours may be necessary when dealing with urgent matters, especially during major contract negotiations or litigation.