Belgian master’s law degree with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience as a lawyer or as an in-house legal counsel in the construction / real estate industry. Having experience in dealing with FIDIC agreements is an asset. You are a native Dutch speaker with a good knowledge of English in writing and orally. French is a plus.
Our client
Since first going into action in 1909, the BESIX Group has over the years grown into a multidisciplinary company with a leading position in its markets: construction, property development and concessions. BESIX Contracting specializes in construction, infrastructure and marine works, often in contracts with a high level of complexity. In Benelux and France, the Group’s regional affiliates BESIX Infra, Belemco, Cobelba, Jacques Delens, Vanhout, Wust and Lux TP ensure a strong presence and a local approach. With Franki Foundations, West Construct, Socogetra, Sanotec and Van den Berg, the Group offers specialist niche solutions for the building market like deep foundations, geo-engineering, road construction, water treatment and cable and pipeline construction.
Backed by their experience in their home markets, they have built up strong positions outside Europe. A typical example is the Middle East, where over a 50 year period they have built up an impressive portfolio. This diversification in activities and geography pays off by reducing their risk exposure.
Description of the vacancy
As Legal Counsel you will be in charge a wide variety contractual matters for the projects in respect of which you are appointed Legal Responsible from business opportunities to tender stage, contract negotiation and project execution until the closure of the projects. Such may include:
- Preparing the necessary MoU's, Prebid JV/consortium agreements, and any other required contractual documentation.
- Reviewing and amending (main) contracts and other agreements (including "overheidsopdrachten / marchés publics" and PPP's), standard contracts, general terms and conditions with a view to reach fair and balanced contract conditions.
- Participating to the project negotiation process.
- Upon award of the project, preparing, negotiating and finalising the project JV/consortium agreement for the project with the assistance, as the case may be, of a corporate legal counsel.
- During the start-up stage, preparing and giving contract briefing to ease professional management of the main contract as well as subcontract(s).
- During the project execution:
- Advising and/or assisting in the preparation and negotiation of any subcontract,
- Ensuring and/or overseeing the follow-up of contract-related correspondence either in person or, as the case may be, with a contract manager / administrator,
- Identifying jointly with the project manager the claim, (pre-)dispute strategy both in relation to the client and/or the subcontractors or other,
- Drafting the required documentation, history, narrative, particulars, … - Providing legal and contractual advice related to the company’s activities essentially at national level.
- Securing proper management of disputes with external lawyers.
- Training on contractual matters and creating aligned knowledge and approach.
- Reporting all contractual matters and disputes according to BESIX rules.
Profile
- You have a Belgian master’s law degree;
- You have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience as a lawyer or as an in-house legal counsel in the construction / real estate industry. Having experience in dealing with FIDIC agreements is an asset.
- You are a native Dutch speaker with a good knowledge of English, in writing and orally. French is a plus;
- You are punctual, creative, dynamic with strong analytical skills;
- You adopt a pragmatic business approach and understand the impact of legal issues on the broader business;
- You have strong communication and interpersonal skills;
- You are capable and willing to defend the company's contractual interest and advocate them accordingly internally and externally;
- You like to work in a team and enjoy sharing knowledge, but you are able to work independently and take on responsibilities;
- You are flexible and capable of working efficiently in a demanding environment.
Offer
Besix offers you a challenging position in a company with a leading position in its markets. An open-minded working environment and dynamic team offering many opportunities for personal and career development. The possibility to work autonomously and in close contact with Legal & Contract team and the business. An attractive salary and benefit package in line with your experience.