Job
Description
Important Attributes: Extensive specialist experience as a Contracts & Procurement Lawyer in large EPC (Engineering Procurement Construction) Companies, specifically within the Downstream Oil and Gas sector, executing large EPC Projects worth $100M+. In-depth experience in international contracts and imports of Capital Goods and Material, with a strong background in Downstream Oil & Gas industries. Proven track record of directly managing and handling complex EPC contracts, with a comprehensive understanding of the financial/commercial/ operational/ technical /contractual/ regulatory risks involved. Expertise in mitigating risks, critical terms and conditions affecting financial/commercial/operational performance, and detailed provisions related to operational and financial governance of contract performance. Knowledge of liquidated damages related to non-performance, warranties and performance guarantees, passing of title and risks, financing, governing laws and arbitration, payment terms structure, financial/corporate guarantees, encumbrances and covenants, intellectual property rights and confidentiality, and risk-sharing among multiple parties in complex contracts. Strong understanding of legal, commercial, financial, operational, governance, and risk management aspects related to commercial contracts and their implementation. Expert-level drafting, negotiation, and advocacy skills. Excellent communication skills as an Advocate. Ability to understand facts, analyze pertinent legal issues, and suggest proactive solutions to mitigate risks. Keeping abreast of legislative and regulatory changes in the Downstream Oil and Gas sector. Acting as a trusted advisor to the company on business transactions, suggesting ways to mitigate risks and be commercially and legally prudent. Proficiency in handling claims, change orders, extra claims, liquidated damages, and suggesting resolution mechanisms. Maintaining good relations with Advocates/Lawyers, briefing Counsel, and presenting the company's viewpoint. Business-friendly and litigation avoidance approach, with experience supporting litigation proceedings as a solicitor if not as a barrister. Key Professional Functions: Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts related to Engineering, Procurement, Construction, agreements with vendors for procurement of materials and services including imported capital goods and materials, technology licensing agreements, joint venture agreements, hydrocarbons purchase, sales and off-take agreements, financing agreements with financing entities, exclusive and non-exclusive service provider agreements with customers, production sharing contracts with business partners and regulators as an operator, agreements for creation and administration of charges and encumbrances, agreements creating positive and negative covenants and affirmations related to charges created, forward sale agreements, agreements with vendors and service providers, etc. Creating and administering processes for governance, compliance, and risk management in connection with the provisions in the various contracts mentioned above. Planning and implementing procedural actions to support the implementation of commercial contracts. Negotiating contracts with customers, business partners, vendors, and regulators. Experience in mediation and arbitration. Dealing with regulatory authorities and public sector undertakings executives and staff. Providing or procuring legal opinions on associated matters related to commercial laws, financial laws and regulations, tax laws, and/or specific transactions. Explaining and presenting legal issues and matters to business executives in business language devoid of legal jargon, incorporating business and technical perspectives when dealing with legal matters. Professional Experience: Between 6 to 9 years of experience in a reputed firm of solicitors or corporate house, with specialist experience as a Contracts & Procurement Lawyer in large EPC companies, preferably supporting Downstream Oil & Gas industries. Deep expertise and practical experience in applicable laws including statute law, secondary legislation, and jurisprudence. Exposure to dealing with top-notch international solicitor firms and reputed law firms. Professional Qualification: A full-time law qualification from a reputed institution or university. Specialist postgraduate qualification related to the Oil & Gas sector or commercial law or contract law would be preferable but not essential.
