Junior Legal Counsel – Maritime & Shipping

About the role

Our client, a leading international maritime organization, is looking for a Junior Legal Counsel to join its in‑house legal team. The role provides comprehensive legal support across commercial, operational, regulatory and dispute matters within the shipping business.

Key responsibilities

• Provide legal advice on maritime, shipping, commercial and corporate issues.
• Draft, review, negotiate and advise on commercial agreements such as charter parties, service agreements, procurement contracts, agency agreements and NDAs.
• Advise internal stakeholders on legal risks related to vessel management, cargo transportation, logistics and other maritime activities.
• Support the business in managing disputes, claims, arbitrations and litigation, coordinating with external counsel as needed.
• Guide regulatory and compliance matters, including sanctions, trade compliance, anti‑bribery, competition law and maritime regulations.
• Assist with incident response, risk management, cargo claims, vessel incidents and insurance issues.
• Contribute to corporate governance by reviewing policies, procedures and legal documentation.
• Monitor legal and regulatory developments affecting the maritime industry and provide practical recommendations.

Required profile

• Qualified lawyer with at least 3 years post‑qualification experience.
• Background in maritime, shipping, admiralty, transportation or related commercial law.
• Experience in a reputable law firm or in‑house legal department.
• Familiarity with charter parties, bills of lading, maritime claims and marine insurance.
• Knowledge of international trade, sanctions and regulatory compliance is preferred.
• Strong drafting, negotiation and stakeholder‑management abilities.
• Commercially minded with the ability to provide practical, business‑oriented advice.
• Capable of working independently and handling multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

Required skills

• Contract drafting and negotiation
• Charter parties
• Bills of lading
• Maritime claims handling
• Marine insurance knowledge