Commercial Associate

Our client is a boutique law firm in Johannesburg specialising in Labour Law, Commercial Law and Litigation. They are seeking a skilled, commercially astute and highly motivated Associate to join their Commercial practice.

The successful candidate will have a minimum of 4 years’ post-admission experience, with strong exposure to commercial law. This role requires an individual who is able to manage matters independently, while also collaborating effectively with senior team members on complex and high-value agreements. The ideal candidate is proactive, solutions-driven, and thrives in a fast-paced, client-focused environment.

Key Responsibilities

Drafting, reviewing and negotiating a wide range of commercial agreements, including:

• Service level agreements (SLAs)
• Supply and distribution agreements
• NDAs and general commercial contracts
• Tenders
• commercial leases and property-related agreements

Conducting legal research and providing clear, practical and commercially sound legal opinions

Supporting clients in contract negotiations and deal execution

Liaising effectively with clients, counsel, and other stakeholders

Managing files independently, including:

• Timely delivery of work
• Maintaining high standards of accuracy and professionalism

Minimum Requirements

• LLB degree
• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa
• Minimum 4 years’ PQE in commercial law

Key Skills and Attributes

Technical Competencies:

• Strong drafting and technical legal skills
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
• Sound commercial judgment and problem-solving ability
• Ability to manage multiple matters and meet tight deadlines

Core Soft Skills:

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain client relationships
• Emotional intelligence and the ability to navigate sensitive client and stakeholder interactions
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex legal concepts
• Proactive mindset with strong initiative and ownership of matters
• Team collaboration skills, with the ability to contribute positively to team dynamics
• Conflict management and negotiation skills
• Time management and organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise effectively
• Professional integrity and sound ethical judgment
• Critical thinking and commercial awareness, with the ability to align legal advice to business objectives

Advantageous

Experience in advising clients on corporate law matters including:

• Corporate structuring
• Regulatory compliance
• Assisting with and leading commercial transactions