External Legal Counsel Real Estate

Client based in Johannesburg North seeks the services of External Legal Counsel Real Estate to provide legal support for real estate transactions and fit-out construction projects across APAC & EMEA during a critical transition period. The goal is to ensure continuity of service and cost-efficient legal coverage, especially for large upcoming transactions in India, Japan, the Philippines and key markets.
Key Responsibilities:

1. Day-to-day support on lease transactions and fit-out construction projects
2. Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating commercial leases and construction contracts
3. Coordinating and managing external counsel where required
4. Advising on jurisdiction-specific lease execution and registration requirements
5. Acting as first point of contact for business stakeholders (Places & CBRE teams)
6. Collaborating with Sourcing, Finance, and other cross-functional partners
7. Supporting knowledge sharing and legal process improvements
8. Providing coverage when internal lead is unavailable (incl. during sabbatical)

Key Skills & Experience:

1. 3+ years’ experience in real estate law across APAC and/or EMEA
2. Strong expertise in lease and construction contracts
3. Experience engaging with external counsel and business teams
4. Ability to balance commercial and legal considerations
5. Fluent in English; additional regional language skills a plus
6. Familiarity with lease registration processes in India or Southeast Asia a plus

Desired Skills:

1. Real Estate
2. Construction
3. External Counsel
4. Legal Considerations
5. Lease registration