Legal Counsel, SEA

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Legal Counsel to join a renowned global snacks powerhouse, supporting the South East Asia (SEA) region covering 6 markets from Kuala Lumpur. This role is hired on a 12-month contract basis with potential opening for conversion to permanent employment.

This role offers the following exciting opportunities:

• Be at the heart of legal decision-making for a leading snacks business with operations across SEA, influencing commercial strategy and ensuring regulatory compliance in diverse markets.
• Delivering as a trusted strategic business partner, providing comprehensive legal support across multiple jurisdictions shaping commercial outcomes by advising on sales and distribution, marketing campaigns, digital commerce initiatives, and intercompany transactions.
• Benefit from flexible working arrangements and the opportunity to work alongside experienced regional lawyers as part of a wider AMEA legal network.

What you'll do:

As Legal Counsel your day-to-day responsibilities will see you partnering with sales teams to structure robust distribution agreements; guiding marketing colleagues through campaign reviews; supporting digital commerce growth; facilitating seamless intercompany transactions; and coordinating essential corporate secretarial duties together with the external service providers.

The primary responsibilities are:

• Provide expert legal advice and support to the Sales and Distribution teams across SEA and other export markets, ensuring all activities comply with local regulations and company policies.
• Draft, review, and amend distribution agreements, trading terms and conditions, licensing deals, subscriptions, and other commercial contracts relevant to the business’s operations in multiple jurisdictions.
• Offer general legal guidance on matters relating to sales channels, distribution strategies, and contractual obligations throughout the SEA region.
• Support marketing teams by reviewing proposed campaign mechanics, content, artwork, packaging materials, and conducting intellectual property clearance for trademarks across SEA.
• Advise on digital commerce initiatives by supporting e-commerce partnership agreements and addressing any legal issues arising from online business activities.
• Assist with intercompany transactions by drafting and reviewing agreements related to brand licensing, sale of goods, shared services, and other cross-border arrangements within SEA.
• Act as the key point of contact for corporate secretarial management matters for entities in SEA; coordinate with global teams on documentation for capital injections, dividend declarations, profit repatriation, board meetings, resolutions, annual filings, and entity registers.
• Interpret new or existing regulations as well as unwritten industry practices to provide sound commercial legal advice that helps navigate complex contractual restrictions in various countries.
• Manage relationships with external legal counsel and corporate secretarial providers to ensure all legal entity-related matters are handled efficiently and effectively.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues in the regional AMEA legal team to share knowledge and best practices while supporting broader organisational objectives.

What you bring:

To excel as Legal Counsel, SEA you will bring substantial experience navigating complex commercial environments—where you have honed your ability to deliver practical solutions tailored for diverse markets.

You must possess the following:

• A minimum of five years’ experience gained either at an international or local law firm or through in-house roles within multinational companies—or a combination of both environments—showcasing your adaptability across different settings.
• Proven interpersonal skills that reflect a positive attitude, sense of humour, empathy towards colleagues’ perspectives, and excellent communication abilities when explaining complex legal concepts.
• Demonstrated experience working across multiple jurisdictions within South East Asia is highly regarded; familiarity with the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector is advantageous but not essential.
• A track record of understanding risk mitigation strategies while working collaboratively as part of a larger legal team focused on shared goals.
• Commitment to meeting deadlines with high-quality output by applying diligence and attention to detail even under pressure.
• Proactiveness in identifying risks or opportunities early on—and acting expediently—to support business objectives without compromising compliance standards.
• Commercial acumen combined with a strategic mindset that enables you to apply legal principles practically while gathering key information from stakeholders to propose effective solutions.
• Ability to foster co-operative relationships internally across departments as well as externally with partners such as outside counsel or service providers.

What sets this company apart:

This organisation stands out as a global leader thanks to its impressive portfolio features some of the world’s most beloved snack brands which inspires pride among staff members who know they are contributing towards products enjoyed by millions worldwide.

The company’s commitment is on unwavering focus on building an inclusive workplace where every employee feels valued for their unique contributions. As part of an international group poised for future expansion—you’ll find yourself at the forefront of industry transformation surrounded by passionate colleagues committed not only to business success but also making a positive impact on society.

What's next:

If you are ready to take your career forward by joining an inspiring team where your expertise truly matters—this is your moment!

Apply today by clicking on the link provided—we look forward to learning more about how you can contribute your talents!

Do note that we will only be in touch if your application is shortlisted.

Agensi Pekerjaan Robert Walters Sdn Bhd
Business Registration Number : 729828-T
Licence Number : JTKSM 423C