DIRECTOR OF LEGAL SERVICES

OVERVIEW

The Mining and Minerals Regulatory Authority (MMRA), Malawi's mining sector regulator, was established under the Mines and Minerals Act of 2019 and the enactment of the Mines and Minerals Act No. 25 of 2023.

MMRA is mandated to regulate the development and utilisation of mineral resources in line with sustainable development principles and practices for the benefit of Malawians.

The Authority's vision is to be a steward of mineral resources for sustainable national prosperity.

To fulfil its mandate effectively and efficiently, MMRA invites applications from suitably qualified and experienced candidates for the position of Director of Legal Services.

The successful candidate will provide strategic legal counsel and governance support, ensuring that the Authority's operations comply with the Mines and Minerals Act and other applicable laws and legal frameworks in Malawi.

JOB TYPE: Full Time

Date Posted: Saturday, 31st October 2026

Application Deadline: Friday, 13th November 2026

TENURE OF APPOINTMENT: Three (3) years, renewable subject to satisfactory performance.

POSITION: DIRECTOR OF LEGAL SERVICES

JOB PURPOSE

To provide strategic legal counsel and governance support to ensure that the Authority's business is conducted in accordance with the Mines Act, the laws of Malawi and other relevant legal frameworks.

DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Director of Legal Services will be responsible for:

1. Legal Strategy, Planning and Policy Development

• Develop Directorate plans, programmes, projects and budgets based on priorities and within allocated resources.
• Assist in developing, monitoring and reviewing policies, plans, strategies, procedures and systems relating to legal matters.
• Formulate, implement and monitor short-term and long-term legal strategies for mining regulation.
• Actively participate in the development and review of laws relating to the mining and minerals sector.

2. Legal Advisory and Governance

• Provide guidance and legal advice to the Board and the Authority on mining and minerals-related laws affecting business transactions.
• Ensure the accuracy, completeness and statutory compliance of corporate legal records, including Board Packs and official documents.
• Undertake legal research, vet legal opinions and provide appropriate legal advice.
• Evaluate the legality of documents issued or approved by the Authority, including licences, codes and orders.

3. Litigation and Dispute Resolution

• Provide and monitor the implementation of enforcement claims and litigation processes.
• Manage the engagement of external legal counsel for litigation and specialised legal services.
• Represent the Authority in legal dealings, including dispute resolution, contract negotiations and litigation.

4. Contract Management and Legal Documentation

• Prepare, review and draft agreements and other legal documents.
• Analyse relevant international conventions and their implications for the mining sector.
• Provide legal support during contract negotiations and other business transactions.

5. Staff Leadership and Supervision

• Direct and supervise members of staff within the Directorate.
• Ensure the effective implementation of work plans and the achievement of Directorate objectives.
• Promote efficient and effective delivery of legal services.

KEY REQUIREMENTS

Academic and Professional Qualifications

Applicants must possess:

• A Master's degree in Law.
• A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from an accredited institution recognised under the National Council for Higher Education Act.
• Admission to the Bar as a practising lawyer.
• Membership of the Malawi Law Society.

Professional Experience

• A minimum of five (5) years' working experience handling legal matters in a corporate environment or a similar setting.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES AND COMPETENCIES

The ideal candidate should demonstrate:

• Strong legal research, analysis and advisory skills.
• Excellent leadership and staff-supervision abilities.
• Good knowledge of mining and minerals-related laws and regulatory frameworks.
• Strong negotiation, litigation and dispute-resolution skills.
• High levels of integrity, professionalism and accountability.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to provide strategic legal guidance and support effective corporate governance.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested and suitably qualified candidates should submit the following documents:

• An application letter.
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV), including the names and addresses of three (3) traceable referees.
• Copies of relevant academic and professional certificates.
• A copy of National Identity Card.

Applications should be submitted under confidential cover and addressed to:

The Comptroller of Statutory Corporations

P.O. Box 30061

Capital City

Lilongwe 3

Malawi.

Closing Date: Friday, 13th November 2026

Only shortlisted candidates will be acknowledged and invited for interviews.

MMRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.