Commercial Lawyer (Corporate & Tax Advisory)

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Commercial Lawyer to join an investment and advisory firm that specialises in private equity, real estate, infrastructure and energy funds. The role combines high‑level legal drafting, tax advisory and client support in a fast‑moving, multi‑jurisdictional environment, and also includes practice‑manager responsibilities.

Key responsibilities

• Draft, review and negotiate commercial agreements, contracts, trust deeds, shareholder agreements and corporate documents.
• Provide specialist advice on South African and international tax matters, including cross‑border planning and compliance.
• Prepare documentation for trust structures, family succession, asset protection and wealth preservation.
• Support contract negotiations, settlement agreements and commercial dispute resolution.
• Conduct legal research and due‑diligence with a focus on risk identification.
• Collaborate with internal corporate, fiduciary, compliance and tax teams as well as external counsel across jurisdictions.
• Contribute to aviation‑related client advice where relevant.
• Assist with regulatory compliance, including Mauritius FSC and economic substance rules.
• Oversee day‑to‑day practice operations, client onboarding and resource utilisation.

Required profile

• Post‑qualification experience in commercial law with a strong track record of drafting complex legal documents.
• Solid knowledge of South African and English law, international tax and trust structures.
• Experience in contract negotiations and settlements; interest or experience in aviation law is a plus.
• Ability to work in a multi‑jurisdictional, high‑pressure environment.

Required skills

• Commercial agreement drafting and negotiation.
• South African and English legal frameworks.
• International and South African tax advisory.
• Trust and wealth‑structuring expertise.
• Aviation law (optional).