Legal Counsel - Trade Deployment

BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business. With products like VELO, VUSE and GLO we are on a mission to decrease the health impact of our industry.

To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to Be The Change. Come, join us on this journey!

What are the key objectives and expectations from this role?

Ensure proactive timely delivery of legal counselling to BAT’s end-to-end Factory-Manufactured Cigarette (‘FMC’) business in the SABN (South Africa, Botswana and Namibia) Cluster. The role will form part of the Legal function, reporting to the Marketing & Regulatory Counsel and will be accountable for supporting the implementation and execution of the Legal functional strategy and objectives as well as delivering the growth agenda.

The role will be responsible for the new product pipeline counselling, artwork, packaging, and consumer-facing communication approvals and advising the business on regulation and compliance in the FMC, tobacco and FMCG environment. To support the commercial teams by advising the trade marketing, marketing finance and marketing deployment teams to ensure legal compliance, whilst also supporting Legal Marketing & Regulatory Counsel on all matters relating to the Marketing Legal function.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Contribute to the development and execution of the Legal & Security functional strategy.
• Monitor and interpret the legislative environment in which the business operates, to ensure that the business understands and meets its legal obligations.
• Leverage digital opportunities and platforms for the management, tracking and reporting of the contract life cycle and litigation across Sub Saharan Africa
• Maintain, update and rollout the regulatory compliance cycle plan for the FMC teams
• Maintain a thorough understanding of upstream, predominantly supplier-side regulatory issues and the regulatory framework in which the business operates and take responsibility for the development of informed solutions enabling the business to respond to and deal with regulatory constraints.
• Supporting the Legal team in any litigation instituted by or against the business within the SABN Cluster, including devising and executing case strategy. Ensuring cost effective management of External Counsel.
• Participate and contribute to cross functional business projects and initiatives to assess, monitor and anticipate potential threats to minimize legal risks and ensure achievement of business objectives.
• Monitor and interpret the legislative environment to ensure that proactive legal advice and support is provided on all matters relating to the FMC trade.
• Draft, negotiate and review contractual documentation and develop as appropriate standard formats to optimise efficiencies within the Legal sub-function.
• Ensure an improved control environment in Legal in line with the business strategy.
• Identify and take steps in conjunction with management to minimise commercial risks.

What are we looking for?

Experience Required

• 3-4 years post qualification, preferably in a trade / marketing environment.
• Demonstrated commercial acumen.
• Thorough knowledge of local substantive and procedural laws relevant to areas of responsibility e.g., Tobacco Control, Commercial Law, Competition law, Admin Law, labelling/packaging regulations and distribution requirements, etc – added advantage
• Strong negotiation, written and verbal communications skills.
• Ability to act on his or her own initiative, lead others and work well with peers and senior management.

• Education / Qualifications / Certifications Required
• A recognized legal qualification (Bachelors’ Degree)  through a reputable academic institution and competence in providing legal advice to internal stakeholders.

What we offer you?

• We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility)
• Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives
• Your journey with us isn't limited by boundaries; it's propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn't just a statement – it's a reality we're eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
• You'll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills
• We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes

WHY JOIN BAT?

We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.

Collaboration, inclusion and partnership underpin everything we do here at BAT. We are looking forward to enabling every individual to thrive, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, veteran status, perspectives and thinking styles. We know that embracing talent from all backgrounds is what makes us stronger and best prepared to meet our business goals.

We see the career breaks as opportunities not obstacles. Through The Global Returners program, we support professionals looking to restart their careers after an extended absence from the workforce (e.g. time out caring for family, parental leave, national service, sabbatical and/or starting an own venture).

Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience here.

If you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, you are encouraged to notify us. We are fully committed to support you by making appropriate arrangements for you to demonstrate your full potential.