Overview

Job type: Full-Time

Job Field: Legal

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and Call to the Nigerian Bar (BL)
• Master of Laws (LLM) (optional)
• Relevant certifications in Intellectual Property, Technology, Data Protection or Employment Law will be an added advantage

Experience: Minimum of One (1) to Five (5) years’ proven relevant experience. Prior experience working in a commercial law firm with exposure to Intellectual Property, Technology, Data Protection and/or Employment law is required.

Job Purpose: The Associate will support the Firm’s Intellectual Property, Technology and Employment (IPT+/Employment) Practice Groups by providing legal and advisory services across a range of matters. The role involves assisting with both contentious and non-contentious work, conducting legal research, drafting and reviewing legal documents, and supporting senior lawyers in delivering commercially practical solutions aligned with client objectives. The Associate will also contribute to client service delivery, regulatory compliance, and the overall growth and effectiveness of the practice group.

 Job Responsibilities

• Provide legal advisory support on intellectual property, data protection, technology, media, and employment matters (both contentious and non-contentious).
• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of agreements, including IP licensing, technology contracts, data protection documentation, and employment-related agreements.
• Conduct legal research and prepare opinions, client advisories, and regulatory guidance notes.
• Support regulatory compliance reviews and liaise with relevant authorities (e.g., NDPC, NITDA, CBN, SEC, NCC).
• Assist with filings and regulatory processes at relevant registries, including trademarks, patents, and data protection filings.
• Contribute to client relationship management by supporting client engagements and delivering timely, high-quality work.
• Support business development initiatives including writing of articles, publications, thought leadership, and market research
• Collaborate with team members and support senior lawyers in the execution of transactions and advisory mandates.
• Perform other duties as directed.

Personnel Specification

• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with good reporting skills;
• Good problem-solving, listening, and learning skills, with a proactive approach;
• Satisfactory interpersonal skills to liaise effectively with court officials, clients, and legal teams, alongside good negotiation abilities;
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access) and familiarity with internet research tools and search engines;

Knowledge Needs & Experience

The ideal candidate must possess the following competencies but not limited to:

• Working knowledge of Nigerian intellectual property laws, including the protection, registration, enforcement, and commercialisation of IP rights, as well as data protection regulations (including the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA)) and applicable employment and labour laws.
• Good understanding of the legal and regulatory landscape for technology-driven businesses, including fintech operations, digital platforms, and the roles of key regulators such as the NDPC, NITDA, CBN, and NCC.
• Demonstrated experience in drafting, reviewing, and supporting the negotiation of legal documents, including commercial agreements, IP licensing arrangements, data protection documentation, and employment-related contracts.
• Ability to apply legal knowledge to real-world scenarios by providing practical, commercially sound, and client-focused solutions across transactional, advisory, and regulatory matters.

Attributes

• Ability to work independently and under minimal supervision while demonstrating initiative and accountability;
• A demonstrated ability to work effectively within a team and contribute to collective goals;
• Ability to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and handle multiple tasks simultaneously;
• Ability and willingness to work long hours;
• Ability to work weekends where required to;
• Ability to multitask with minimal or no error;
• Ability to be a proactive thinker and an excellent problem solver;
• Willingness to learn, adapt, and contribute effectively within a collaborative team environment.

Rewards & Benefits

Reasonably compensated with usual benefits.

The candidate will be entitled to comprehensive benefits including, but not limited to:

• Health Insurance: Full medical coverage (including dependents) provided.
• Retirement Benefits: Contributions to a pension scheme.
• Vacation Leave: 21 days of paid vacation annually.
• Professional Development: Access to training programs and industry conferences to enhance professional growth and stay ahead in industry.
• 13th Month Salary: The candidate will be entitled to a 13th-month salary to further incentive commitment to the firm.
• Data Allowance: A monthly data allowance will be provided to ensure the candidate has the necessary resources to remain connected and manage tasks efficiently, especially when working outside of the office.
• Transport Allowance: A monthly transport allowance will also be provided to support commuting expenses and ease the cost of transportation.