At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal strategy for EMEA, guiding the leadership team through a transitional period.
- Company: Global petrochemicals and lubricants business with a dynamic growth environment.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive compensation, and opportunity to shape regional legal operations.
- Other info: Immediate start for a 3-6 month interim role with potential for significant influence.
- Why this job: Be a key player in a fast-paced environment, making impactful decisions during a critical transition.
- Qualifications: Senior legal experience with strong commercial judgement and regional expertise.
The predicted salary is between 148500 - 181500 £ per year.
London preferred | Hybrid | Immediate start | Interim (3–6 months)
The Business
A global petrochemicals and industrial lubricants business (motor oils, greases and specialty lubricants), operating across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and backed by a major international energy group. The company has manufacturing, commercial and sales operations across EMEA, with a newly established EMEA leadership hub in London, and is undergoing a period of growth, organisational change and increasing complexity. This is a fast‑paced, highly operational environment requiring senior legal leadership with strong commercial judgement and regional experience.
The Opportunity
Following the departure of both the Regional EMEA leader and the prior senior regional legal lead, the business requires immediate, senior interim legal cover for EMEA. This is a Regional GC‑level role, responsible for stabilising, guiding and supporting the EMEA leadership team while a permanent search is ongoing (expected c.3–6 months). The successful interim will act as the right‑hand legal partner to the regional leadership and play a critical role in maintaining momentum and reducing risk during this transition period. The role reports into US‑based senior legal leadership, with limited US interaction day‑to‑day and primary focus on EMEA stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as the most senior legal leader for EMEA, covering Europe, the Middle East and Africa
- Serve as a trusted business partner to the EMEA leadership team (largely London‑based), participating in leadership meetings and decision‑making
- Commercial contracts (distribution, sales, supply, manufacturing, services)
- Industrial / petrochemical manufacturing operations
- Employment and labour matters across multiple jurisdictions
- Regulatory, compliance, ethics, anti‑bribery and trade matters
- Disputes and litigation management
- Provide legal input on Middle East and Saudi‑related matters
- Oversee and coordinate external counsel across EMEA (c.30% of workload)
- Support and interact with an existing lean in‑house legal team based in Europe and Saudi Arabia
- Bring structure, calm and clarity to a complex, fast‑moving regional environment
- Manage risk proactively while enabling the business to continue operating at pace
Candidate Profile
England regional travel as needed
Hiring: Interim Regional General Counsel (EMEA) employer: Major, Lindsey & Africa
Major, Lindsey & Africa is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic work culture in Belfast, where employees are empowered to engage with complex transactions and navigate evolving regulatory landscapes. With a strong emphasis on professional development, the company offers ample opportunities for growth and collaboration within its global teams, making it an ideal place for experienced legal professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
Contact Details:
Major, Lindsey & Africa Recruitment Team
