Assistant Legal Counsel - Marketing and Regulations

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!

FUNCTION: Legal

REPORTS TO: Legal Counsel – Marketing and Regulations

LEVEL: Junior Management

The Role reports to the Legal Counsel Marketing and Regulations East and Southern Africa (ESA) Markets.

The role involves responsibility for advising the business on legal matters pertaining to trade and marketing, intellectual property, regulations, litigation, tax and legal compliance. The role holder will also support in driving compliance with the BAT Standards of Business Conduct and related policies.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Render timely legal advice to the business on Competition Law compliance, Intellectual Property law (including trademark protection and management), Excise and regulatory engagements.
• Support the management of BAT’s Intellectual Property portfolio in the respective ESA markets including by ensuring timely registration or renewal of trademarks and through assisting with the management of any related disputes or litigations.
• Maintain a thorough understanding of regulatory issues and the regulatory framework in which the business operates and take part in developing informed solutions enabling the business to respond to and deal with regulatory risks/constraints.
• Support the proactive management of litigation risks and strategy in all BAT ESA entities including by reporting to relevant stakeholders, monitor key developments in the litigation arena conducting employee trainings and sensitisation programmes, review of relevant company documentation including contracts, processes, standard letters, etc.
• Support the business’ anti-illicit trade (AIT) plans and activities by reviewing them for compliance with the relevant local laws and BAT policies as well as supporting any proactive review of existing or proposed laws.
• Contribute to the development and execution of the Legal functional strategy.
• 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.
• Execute relevant administrative activities in the Legal Function to ensure the availability of resources, continuous flow of information and updated records.
• Support the Legal Function in ensuring cost effective management of external counsel.
• Develop, train, and promote better understanding by ESA employees and other relevant persons of applicable internal policies & controls and compliance with relevant local laws.
• Identify and take steps in conjunction with line manager to proactively mitigate and manage any commercial, litigation and reputational risks.
• Enable the business to achieve its business objectives in a legally compliant way while unlocking commercial opportunity through good practice.
• Provide effective management of legal risk to drive sustainable growth.
• Support, implement and deliver the strategic plans and objectives of the Legal sub-function in line with the business strategy.

What are we looking for?

•  A recognized legal qualification through a reputable academic institution and competence in providing legal advice to internal stakeholders.  Must possess a valid advocate’s practicing certificate.
• At least 5 years’ post admission experience as inhouse Counsel preferably in Fast Moving Consumer Goods Industry.
• Thorough knowledge of local substantive and procedural laws relevant to areas of responsibility including but not limited to Commercial Law, Competition Law and intellectual property as well as emerging trends and issues.
• Strong negotiation, written and verbal skills.
• Ability to apply strong analytical skills and good judgment.
• Collaborative team player with strong negotiation, communication, and dispute resolution skills.

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.