Associate General Counsel

Our client is a leading global commodities company and are currently establishing a new office in Geneva. The Associate General Counsel will play a pivotal role in launching this new location, ensuring the creation of a professional and welcoming environment. In this leadership position, you will be instrumental in shaping the office culture and setting the tone for its success

The company's business focuses on the physical trading of refined oil products, crude oil, LPG, biofuels, condensate, and other liquid feedstocks. Its activities also include risk management (such as hedging), shipping and chartering, storage and inventory management, trading of oil-related derivatives, and other ancillary services. The European division will engage in similar activities, with a focus on the European market.

The Associate General Counsel (Europe) will be responsible for supporting the company's European front office and corporate functions, offering legal advice related to all aspects of the business.

Your responsibilities:

• Drafting and reviewing trade, commercial, and supply chain contracts, including general terms and conditions, charter parties, shipping documentation, and agreements related to intra-Europe barging activity
• Addressing operational issues related to international trade and shipping
• Handling exchange-related documentation, brokerage agreements, ISDAs and CSAs, and derivatives activity
• Managing corporate, finance, and trade finance documentation
• Supporting strategic projects and transactions
• Overseeing disputes, conflicts, claims, arbitration, and litigation
• Addressing shareholder, board, and governance matters
• Managing regulatory and compliance issues, including sanctions and relevant EU regulations related to customs, REACH, and licensing requirements for trading refined products
• Overseeing risk management
• Supporting the Human Capital function and advising on employment law issues as necessary
• Occasional travel to various sites will be required, though not extensively

The Associate General Counsel should be confident and possess strong leadership abilities. They must thrive in high-pressure environments and handle stress with ease.

Your qualifications:

• Solid academic credentials, with an LLB law degree or equivalent
• Over 10 years of post-qualification experience (PQE)
• Must be admitted to practice law in Switzerland and/or a common law jurisdiction, such as England & Wales, Australia, Singapore, or Hong Kong
• A demonstrated interest in oil trading, commodities, shipping, and commercial sectors, with prior legal experience in one or more of these fields
• Outstanding English language proficiency, both written and spoken; French language skills are a plus
• A solid understanding of the Geneva market, along with experience in the local area, is essential

Benefits:

• Attractive salary package with additional perks, including a pension plan, private insurance, and other benefits
• Opportunity to establish and grow in a fresh environment while setting up a new office with around 20 people
• Capable of shaping the company's culture, with ample opportunities for growth.
• Brand new office space in a prime location in Geneva