Senior Legal Counsel MEA

Responsibilities

• Work as a key member of the Middle East & Africa (MEA) legal team in Dubai, UAE
• Partner closely with MEA Chief Counsel, Commercial, Operations and other disciplines
• Review and negotiate contracts, consultancy agreements, joint ventures, MoUs, and subcontracts
• Assist with major projects and corporate transactions
• Advise on legal matters including ethics and compliance, construction law, management of disputes and claims (including professional indemnity matters)
• Provide mentoring, supervision, and support to junior counsel
• Ensure business compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements
• Proactively deliver solutions-focused, legally sound advice
• Prepare bid responses on contractual terms and conditions
• Manage contentious disputes and claims, including matters notified to professional indemnity insurers
• Collaborate with global legal teams on international projects
• Implement risk management initiatives including company policy and delegation of authority triggers
• Liaise with other corporate functions (Operations, Finance, Risk Management, HR)
• Advise on labor law and employment disputes
• Manage instructions to external legal counsel
• Ensure compliance with ethics-related regulations (e.g., US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, UK Bribery Act etc.)
• Provide legal training as required
• Develop and manage standard forms and documents (e.g., NDAs, consultancy agreements)

Requirements

• Minimum 10+ years post-admission experience
• Bachelor of Law from a reputable university
• Excellent oral and written English communication skills
• Experience in contract review and negotiation, construction law, and major projects
• Negotiation skills in written, virtual and face-to-face scenarios
• Solid administration and organizational skills
• Ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team
• Flexibility in work and ability to prioritize

Preferred Qualifications

• Arabic (written and spoken) highly regarded
• Strong contracts and major projects experience
• Expertise in contentious matters/disputes
• Top-tier law firm experience
• Experience in the Middle East region
• Multi-national corporation experience
• Expertise in ethics and compliance
• Construction/engineering industry experience

Benefits

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life & AD&D Insurance
• Disability benefits
• Paid time off
• Leaves of absence
• Voluntary benefits and perks
• Flexible work options
• Well-being resources
• Employee assistance program
• Business travel insurance
• Service recognition awards
• Retirement savings plan
• Employee stock purchase plan

About the Company

AECOM is the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, delivering projects that help people and communities thrive. With more than 50,000 employees globally, AECOM partners with clients to solve complex challenges and build lasting legacies. As a Fortune 500 firm and global leader in professional services, AECOM is committed to technical excellence, innovative problem solving, and shaping the future of infrastructure. Join a global team driven by respect, collaboration, and opportunity for growth.