Title: Head of Legal (Syndikusanwalt)
Location: Berlin, Germany
Position Overview:
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Legal to join a global manufacturing business in Berlin, Germany. As the Head of Legal, you will provide strategic legal guidance and support for the business’s global operations. You will lead a team of two legal professionals and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance, mitigate legal risks, and drive business objectives forward.
Responsibilities:
- Provide expert legal advice to senior management and various departments on a wide range of legal matters, including commercial, corporate, employment, data privacy, and litigation.
- Lead and manage a team of two Legal Counsels (based in Germany).
- Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of commercial agreements, such as vendor contracts, distribution agreements, and licensing agreements.
- Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations governing manufacturing operations, including environmental, health and safety, and employment laws.
- Develop and implement an effective legal strategy to protect the company’s interests and minimize legal risks.
- Manage and oversee legal disputes and litigation, working with external counsel as needed.
- Stay updated on changes in laws and regulations affecting the business and advise the company proactively on potential impacts.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including finance, human resources, and operations, to support business initiatives and drive strategic objectives.
- Cultivate strong relationships with external legal providers in Germany and other international markets, as well as regulators and industry associations.
Requirements:
- Qualified German lawyer (completion of second state exams) with at least 8* years of post-qualified experience (some of which should be in-house).
*PQE is given as a guide only; candidates with relevant transferable skills and experience will be considered. - Proven leadership experience, with the ability to manage and develop a team of legal professionals.
- Strong understanding of German and EU laws and regulations relevant to the manufacturing industry.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate and influence stakeholders at all levels.
- High level of integrity and ethical conduct.
- Fluency in English and German, both written and verbal, is required.
Desirable:
- Previous experience in the manufacturing industry.
- Expertise in German employment law.