General Counsel / Head of Legal : Investment Firm

Our client is a leading Abu Dhabi-based investment firm with a diversified portfolio spanning real estate, hospitality, and other strategic sectors. With a strong presence across the UAE and neighbouring markets, the company is focused on delivering long-term value through high-quality developments and smart investment strategies. It is recognised for its commitment to innovation, growth, and contributing to the region's economic development.

• Provide strategic legal advice to senior executives and the board on compliance, risk, and business direction.
• Oversee all legal functions, including corporate governance, commercial agreements, employment law, regulatory compliance, litigation, mergers and acquisitions, and intellectual property.
• Ensure the organisation adheres to all applicable laws and sector-specific regulations.
• Draft, review, and negotiate key legal agreements and documentation.
• Manage disputes, litigation, and regulatory matters in coordination with external legal advisers.
• Serve as Company Secretary, supporting board activities such as meeting preparation, minute-taking, and formal resolutions.
• Lead risk management initiatives and implement policies to mitigate legal exposure.
• Supervise the in-house legal team and maintain strong relationships with external law firms.
• Provide training and guidance to internal stakeholders on legal and regulatory matters relevant to the business.
• Stay up to date with legal developments affecting the organisation's operations and industry.

• 12+ years of professional Legal experience, with at least 2-3 years in a senior/executive leadership role
• Comfortable operating as the stand-alone legal, with ability to manage and utilise external counsel, where appropriate
• Familiarity with capital markets
• Ability to manage DIFC / ADGM transaction litigation
• Available to join within 1-2 months from date of offer acceptance
• Must be based in Abu Dhabi now or willing to relocate to Abu Dhabi for the role
• Strong knowledge of contractual law (major vertical is real estate but also financial services and oil & gas are useful)
• Arabic language skills (written and verbal) strongly preferred
• Sector / industry experience and knowledge within M&A / PE / Finance, Real Estate / Construction or Shipping & Logistics
• Strong preference for someone with understanding of the legal mechanics for setting up investment funds
• Strong preference for someone with experience at a reputable law firm
• Strong preference for someone with experience within Private Equity