Legal Counsel – APAC Trading House (Singapore)

About the role

Our client, a diversified multinational trading house, is seeking a Singapore‑qualified Legal Counsel to join its eight‑person legal team at the regional headquarters. The role offers a supportive culture and a hybrid working environment, providing end‑to‑end legal support for investment projects, trading contracts and day‑to‑day operations across APAC.

Key responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive legal advice on investment projects, trading agreements and routine operational matters in the APAC region.
• Draft, review and negotiate transaction documents including term sheets, share purchase agreements and internal approval materials.
• Support M&A transactions across multiple industry verticals, typically ranging from USD 5 million to USD 30 million.
• Manage compliance, corporate secretarial duties, regulatory filings and preparation of board/shareholder resolutions.
• Instruct and oversee external counsel, ensuring quality and cost‑effectiveness.
• Assist the Singapore General Manager and regional Chief Legal Officer on transactional work.

Required profile

• Singapore‑qualified or Commonwealth‑bar qualified lawyer with 4–10 years post‑qualification experience.
• Strong M&A background from private practice, complemented by in‑house generalist experience (including dispute handling).
• Exposure to trading houses, commodities or related sectors is a plus, though transferable skills are welcomed.
• High emotional intelligence and ability to translate complex legal concepts into clear business language.

Required skills

• Expertise in drafting and negotiating term sheets, SPAs and other transaction documents.
• Experience managing external counsel and overseeing regulatory compliance.
• Proficiency in corporate secretarial matters and board governance.