Legal Expert

Job Title  Legal Expert  Location  Addis Ababa  No. of Positions 1 Term of Employment  Permanent   Job Summary: - The Legal Expert provides professional legal support to Dashen Brewery by advising departments on legal matters, managing all non-commercial contracts, and supporting litigation when needed. This role ensures that business decisions and agreements are legally sound, helping the company avoid risk and operate within Ethiopian law. Key Responsibilities Legal Advisory & Risk Management   In coordination with the Legal Director, provide timely and practical legal advice to all departments, including Head Office and both brewery plants. In coordination with the Legal Director, advise on labor law, brand protection, competition/antitrust, and other regulatory matters affecting operations. In coordination with the Legal Director, prepare legal briefs and responses on emerging legal issues affecting the business. In coordination with the Legal Director, review legal documents from external bodies and assess their impact on Dashen Brewery’s operations. Non-Commercial Contract Management Draft, review, negotiate, and finalize all non-commercial contracts, including but not limited to: HR agreements Supply contracts Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) Service-level agreements In coordination with the Legal Director, Develop and revise contract templates annually to reflect legal and operational updates. Ensure all required documentation is complete, accurate, and properly approved by relevant departments (Finance, Supply, HR, CEO). Track and follow up on contract renewals to ensure timely updates and legal continuity. Ensure non-commercial contracts are complied with Ethiopia law and Dashen’s policies and procedures including finance and procurement policies, where applicable. Maintain a secure and organized contract archive for audit readiness and operational transparency. People Management and Development Support the Legal Director in planning, organizing, and monitoring the legal department’s activities. Promote a professional, ethical, and collaborative work environment. Participate in performance reviews and contribute to the development of legal team capabilities. Litigation Support (As Assigned) Support litigation and dispute resolution when workload requires, under the direction of the Legal Director. Assist in preparing legal documents including defenses, suits, affidavits, and appeals. Represent Dashen Brewery before courts, arbitration panels, tax review commissions, and administrative bodies as delegated. Contribute to oral litigation efforts and negotiation of amicable settlements. Report on case status and assess the likelihood of success in assigned matters. Legal Monitoring & Regulatory Affairs Monitor changes in Ethiopian laws, proclamations, and directives relevant to Dashen Brewery’s operations. Prepare legal updates and summaries for internal stakeholders to support informed decision-making. Ensure legal documents and updated laws are available and accessible to relevant departments and work units. Follow up on the timely renewal and accuracy of all company licenses and certificates. External Relations & Representation Support Legal director during Interface with regulators, supervisory bodies, and third parties on legal matters affecting the company. Other Duties Provide legal support on special projects or internal investigations as assigned by the Legal Director or the company. Attend disciplinary committee meetings and provide legal input on HR-related matters. Deliver tailored legal training sessions in collaboration with HR and Supply teams, particularly on contract obligations and legal rights.