Legal Manager

WeConnect Energy is currently recruiting for a Legal Manager position on behalf of a pioneering joint venture company based in the UAE. The company is focused on transforming national drilling operations through the application of artificial intelligence and advanced drilling technologies, with the aim of delivering more efficient, data-driven energy projects across the region.

This full-time role offers the opportunity to join a fast-growing business at a foundational stage. The successful candidate will operate as sole counsel and take ownership of all legal matters, working closely with the CEO and reporting to the General Counsel of the major shareholder. The Legal Manager will also be responsible for growing and managing the internal legal function as the business scales.

Key Responsibilities:

• Acting as the lead legal advisor to the company, overseeing all legal, commercial, and compliance matters

• Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating a broad range of contracts, including those related to drilling services, technology partnerships, operations, and commercial engagements

• Designing and implementing internal legal frameworks, including policies, governance structures, and compliance protocols

• Providing strategic legal guidance to senior leadership and stakeholders on risk, contract structures, regulatory matters, and dispute avoidance

• Managing relationships with external counsel as needed

• Leading future legal team expansion, including hiring and management responsibilities

Required Experience:

• 6+ years of post-qualification legal experience, ideally within the oil & gas, energy, or industrial technology sectors

• Experience as in-house counsel or within a top-tier private practice, with exposure to operational and project-based contracting

• Proven ability to work independently and directly with executive-level stakeholders

• Previous experience working in the Middle East is highly advantageous

• English law qualified (or other common law jurisdiction)

If you are interested in this opportunity, please click the apply button or contact Andrew Pretswell at a.pretswell@weconnectenergy.com