Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced Legal Consultant with proven experience in both the oil & gas and shipping/maritime sectors. This role provides strategic legal support on cross-border energy transactions, vessel chartering, shipping disputes, and compliance with international regulations. The ideal candidate will advise on contracts, regulatory matters, marine insurance, cargo claims, and maritime law as it intersects with the energy value chain.
Key Responsibilities:
Contractual & Commercial Legal Support
- Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of agreements, including:
Crude oil, LNG, and petroleum product sale and purchase agreements (SPAs)
Charter party agreements (voyage, time, bareboat)
Transportation and logistics contracts (e.g., COAs, terminal access)
Shipbuilding, towage, and bunkering agreements - Provide legal guidance during commercial negotiations and asset acquisitions (e.g., vessels, terminals, upstream rights).
Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure compliance with maritime conventions (e.g., MARPOL, SOLAS), local flag state rules, and international sanctions.
- Monitor and advise on laws and regulations impacting oil & gas and shipping operations, including:
Environmental regulations
Customs, import/export control
IMO regulations
Anti-bribery/corruption laws (e.g., FCPA, UK Bribery Act) - Advise on marine insurance, P&I Club coverage, liability limitations, and maritime liens.
Dispute Resolution & Claims Management
- Support and manage dispute resolution involving:
Shipping delays, demurrage claims, and force majeure events
Cargo loss, contamination, or off-spec issues
Breach of charter party or transportation contracts - Coordinate with external counsel and claims handlers for arbitration, mediation, or litigation proceedings (e.g., LMAA, ICC, LCIA).
Corporate Governance & Advisory
- Advise internal stakeholders on legal risks and strategic decisions across energy and shipping operations.
- Draft legal memos, risk assessments, KYC and due diligence reports for cross-border transactions and projects.
Qualifications & Skills:
- Degree or Diploma in Maritime Law
- 3–5 years’ experience in a law firm or in-house legal department with a focus on oil & gas and/or maritime law.
- Strong knowledge of shipping law, marine insurance, and international conventions.
- Excellent drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.
- Strong interpersonal and cross-functional collaboration abilities.
- Ability to work independently under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
- Experience in vessel shipping operations and logistics, cargo and bunkering, demurrage, etc.