Director of Legal – UK, African Mediterranean, and Middle East

TGS provides scientific data and intelligence to companies active in the energy sector. In addition to a global, extensive and diverse energy data library, TGS offers specialized services such as advanced processing and analytics alongside cloud-based data applications and solutions.

The Director of Legal will lead and manage the legal function in Weybridge, overseeing legal support for all company activities originating from this office and from the UK and AMME (Africa, Middle East) team. In this role, the Director will be responsible for advising on and ensuring compliance with relevant laws, policies, and regulations to protect the company's interests and mitigate risk. Additionally, the Director of Legal will collaborate globally with the Legal team on cross-regional projects, extending their expertise and support beyond the AMME and UK region. This position requires strong legal acumen, leadership, and the ability to navigate complex, multinational projects. This is an onsite role.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Oversee all legal matters originating in the UK and AMME region, including but not limited to reviewing tenders, license agreements, supplier arrangements, and other business-related documents, providing legal advice on joint ventures, corporate transactions, governance, HR issues, commercial contracts and compliance, and managing dispute resolution matters. Act as the main point of contact for the legal entities incorporated within the region, ensuring regulatory compliance and risk mitigation.
2. Lead, manage, and develop the regional legal team, prioritizing skill development in leadership, collaboration, teamwork, and cross-functional communication. Provide supervision, guidance, and performance management to team members, while fostering an environment of continuous learning. Oversee relationships with external counsel, including selection, engagement, and performance assessment to ensure effective legal representation.
3. Collaborate with global legal counterparts and other business units to support regional initiatives, participate in cross-border projects, and maintain a cohesive approach to company-wide legal strategies.
4. Manage ad hoc projects as they arise, ensuring timely and strategic input on legal aspects of business initiatives. Identify when to engage external counsel on specialized matters, ensuring effective and cost-efficient service.
5. Design and deliver regular legal training sessions for regional company personnel on relevant legal topics, including compliance, contract management, and regulatory requirements, to build awareness and mitigate risk across business functions.
6. Systematically report to the General Counsel based in Houston, providing updates on regional legal matters, major issues, risks, and significant projects. Ensure regular communication and alignment with the General Counsel on strategic and operational priorities.
7. Monitor and stay informed of legal developments and regulatory changes impacting the UK and AMME region, proactively advising on necessary changes to business practices or compliance measures.
8. Support mergers, acquisitions, and other strategic transactions within the region by providing due diligence, structuring advice, and legal risk assessment to contribute to successful and compliant business growth.

Job Requirements:

1. Qualified to practice law in the U.K. or other jurisdiction, ideally with a strong background in commercial and corporate law. Experience in the energy sector is preferred but not required. If qualified to practice law in a jurisdiction other than the U.K., must have familiarity with U.K. laws.
2. Extensive experience (10+ years) in a similar role, ideally within a multinational organization.
3. Expertise in managing legal functions for diverse markets, including experience in UK, AMME and global legal operations.

Qualifications:

1. Deep practical and theoretical knowledge of relevant regional corporate and commercial law.
2. Strong business acumen and strategic mindset, performing all duties with integrity and professionalism whilst taking a pragmatic and risk-based approach.
3. Strong communication skills, both written and oral, and excellent drafting skills.
4. Ability to gain and maintain trust and confidence of business teams by providing sound advice and creative solutions.
5. Ability to manage and organize priorities and workload and contribute effectively to the global Legal Department.

TGS provides competitive salary and benefits packages.

This job description is intended to explain the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

TGS is an equal opportunity employer.