Reports To: Head of Legal
- The Litigation & Dispute Resolution Specialist supports the management of the Company's litigation and dispute resolution matters to protect DPRP's legal and commercial interests.
- The role focuses on monitoring cases, providing legal analysis, coordinating with internal stakeholders and external counsel, and ensuring timely and effective resolution of disputes.
- The position contributes to minimizing legal exposure, ensuring compliance with legal requirements, and supporting the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Lead with accurate reporting and case management.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide legal analysis and advice on dispute resolution and litigation matters to support informed decision-making and protect the Company's interests.
- Monitor and assess the impact of new laws, regulations, and legal developments, and make recommendations to the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Lead.
- Manage and track litigation and dispute resolution matters (including ADR), ensuring effective handling and minimization of legal exposure.
- Liaise with internal stakeholders to investigate disputes, ensure timely resolution, and escalate complex matters where necessary.
- Support the preparation and presentation of the Company's legal position in litigation and dispute resolution proceedings.
- Coordinate and manage relationships with external counsel and regulatory bodies to ensure efficient service delivery and alignment with Company objectives.
- Conduct legal research, investigate issues, and collate relevant documentation to support case strategy and reporting.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all litigation and dispute resolution matters to ensure audit readiness and effective tracking.
- Monitor case progress and ensure timely action on key milestones, filings, and deliverables.
- Review and respond to claims, demand letters, and legal notices to ensure timely and appropriate action.
- Provide support on disputes arising from contracts and assist in debt recovery initiatives where required.
- Prepare periodic reports on litigation status, risks, and outcomes for the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Lead.
- Support the implementation of legal strategies and directives issued by the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Lead, General Counsel, and Company Secretary.
- Provide legal and administrative support on dispute-related matters as required.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Lead, General Counsel, or Company Secretary.
Education and Work Experience:
- Bachelor of Laws (LL.B).
- Barrister-at-Law (B.L.) and qualification to practice in Nigeria.
- A Master's degree in Law (LL.M) is an added advantage.
Professional Qualification:
- Membership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is required.
- Minimum of 8 years' post-qualification experience in a legal function.
- At least 5 years' practical experience in litigation and dispute resolution, preferably gained in a top-tier law firm or within a manufacturing or multinational organization.
Functional Competencies:
Technical / Functional Skills (Must Have):
- Strong knowledge of civil procedure rules applicable in Federal and State Courts in Nigeria.
- Sound knowledge of Nigerian case law, court processes, and dispute resolution mechanisms (litigation and ADR).
- Ability to conduct legal research and apply findings to dispute resolution strategies.
- Strong understanding of applicable laws and regulatory requirements impacting Company operations.
- Experience in handling litigation processes, including case preparation and documentation.
- Familiarity with regulatory and legal issues within a manufacturing or energy environment.
- Ability to review, analyse, and respond to claims, demand letters, and legal notices.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools and legal documentation systems.
Behavioural / Soft Skills:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously.
- Effective interpersonal and stakeholder management skills.
- Good negotiation and influence skills.
- Ability to work independently while escalating complex issues appropriately.
- High level of integrity, professionalism, and sound judgment.
- Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.