Sr Legal Associate

Company Description
PowerGen Renewable Energy is a micro-grid developer and Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) company for Commercial and Industrial (C&I) solar projects in Africa. PowerGen is creating an African energy system that utilizes clean, renewable energy and smarter grids to deliver power to all.
We uniquely combine our mission – to build Africa’s future energy system, while improving lives through smarter power – with technical, on-the-ground expertise and an innovative business model. We build, own and operate AC micro-grids and C&I solar projects to bring power to residential, commercial and industrial customers. With over 120 employees, a 7,500 sq. ft. workshop and offices in Nairobi, Nigeria and Sierra Leone, PowerGen is building a company that is set to have an impact on the energy sector in Africa for years to come.
As a Software Engineer you will play a critical role in supporting the company’s existing and future software products. You will be responsible for contributing to the ongoing development of our platform and participating in the daily process of the team. You will report to the Director of Product and work closely across the customer teams who are the primary users of our software.
Job Description
Job Title: Sr Legal Associate
Team: Legal
Location(s): Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, Nairobi, or Johannesburg
Reporting Structure:
Reporting to: Executive team
Direct reports: N/A
Purpose / Overview
The Sr Legal Associate plays a pivotal role in providing comprehensive legal support at PowerGen. This position involves a wide range of responsibilities, including drafting and reviewing contracts, coordinating with external counsels, managing documentation, conducting legal research, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. The Sr Legal Associate will collaborate closely with internal teams, handle project requests and offer general legal assistance as needed. The Sr Legal Associate will also work closely with the DRC team on all matters.
Activities:
Draft, review, and edit contracts, agreements, and legal documents. Must have strong attention to detail and a thorough understanding of contractual language
Support the DRC team to understand the regulations and implement projects in accordance, to interface with the government, and to support on permitting, applications, tenders, and other documents in the DRC
Collaborate effectively with internal teams and external legal counsel to facilitate manage legal matters and contracts. Clear communication and coordination skills are crucial
Provide assistance on project-related legal matters, contributing to the successful execution of company initiatives, while adhering to legal requirements
Support permitting processes for projects, including preparing and reviewing permit applications, ensuring compliance with local and national regulations, and liaising with relevant authorities
Manage compliance tasks such as Know Your Customer (KYC) requests and internal compliance audits. Ensure the organization’s adherence to legal and regulatory guidelines
Conduct thorough legal research, analyze findings, and provide well-informed opinions on complex legal issues, contributing to informed decision-making
Offer comprehensive legal support as required by the organization, addressing various legal queries and tasks that arise in the course of business operations
Qualifications
Competencies & Experience:
3-5+ years professional experience in the legal profession. Preference for experience with DRC law and regulatory engagements
Must be a driven and collaborative self-starter with a strong work ethic and high-level of grit
Strong understanding of corporate law, contract law and legal principles
Experience in commercial contracts including PPA, EPC, vendor, land, and other agreements
Proficiency in legal research and analysis
Familiarity with international investor compliance standards, process and documentation
Strong computer skills with MS Office Suite and legal databases
Passionate about transforming the power sector on the continent and providing clean, reliable and affordable power to millions of people
Must be fluent in both French and English
Additional Information
What Excites You:
Intense attention to detail and managing multiple and varied work streams at the same time
Working collaboratively with many internal teams across multiple countries and offices to drive growth and operational excellence
A fast-paced, informal environment where constant change is the norm.
Benefits & Compensation
Remote work
On-the-job mentoring and learning opportunities
Networking with experienced professionals
Work experience for professional profile and resume
Competitive annual compensation
Annual holiday bonus
Medical insurance
Flexible work schedule
Professional development opportunities internally and externally Individualized career development
Performance feedback and open-door company culture

PowerGen Renewable Energy