Our client
Nicols is an established player in the FMCG sector, operating in a regulated, product-driven environment. The company manages a diverse portfolio of consumer products and operates across multiple markets, requiring a robust and pragmatic legal function closely embedded in the business.
Nichols places strong emphasis on compliance, risk management, and operational excellence, with the legal function acting as a true business partner to support sustainable growth and strategic initiatives.
Function
The Legal Counsel will oversee and manage the company’s legal activities, providing hands-on legal support to management and operational teams. The role covers a broad scope including contract management, regulatory and product compliance, corporate governance, IP, and dispute management. You will report to the CFO (Legal & Compliance Department) and work in close collaboration with internal stakeholders across Regulatory Affairs, Product Development, Procurement, Sales & Marketing, Finance, and the Executive Committee. During a transition period, you will coordinate with external legal advisors and progressively internalize legal matters.
Your missions will include:
Contract Management
· Review customer, supplier, logistics and distribution agreements.
· Draft, negotiate and manage commercial contracts, NDAs, templates and clauses.
· Ensure proper contract lifecycle management and risk mitigation.
Legal Strategy, Governance & Transactions
· Define and implement legal policies and standards.
· Support corporate transactions (including M&A) and legal structuring.
· Provide strategic legal advice to management.
Product Compliance & Regulatory Affairs
· Monitor and ensure compliance with applicable product regulations across markets.
· Support product approvals (ingredients, labelling, SDS).
· Align internal policies with external regulatory obligations.
Intellectual Property & Regulatory Affairs
· Protect trademarks, designs and patents.
· Conduct IP infringement checks prior to market entry.
· Coordinate with IP advisors where needed.
Corporate Governance
· Support the Board and shareholders.
· Manage legal entity administration and corporate housekeeping.
Risk, Compliance, Litigation & Dispute Management
· Manage claims, litigation and insurance matters.
· Address competition law, anti-corruption, code of conduct and GDPR topics.
· Implement risk management processes and legal checkpoints within operations.
Profile
· A Master’s degree in Law (commercial / corporate focus).
· At least 5 years of experience in commercial law, contract law and regulatory frameworks.
· Proven experience in FMCG, consumer goods or a manufacturing environment.
You demonstrate:
· Strong expertise in commercial and contract law (drafting, negotiation, risk assessment).
· Solid understanding of regulatory compliance (product-related, environmental, consumer).
· Knowledge of IP law (trademarks, designs).
· Experience in risk management and dispute resolution.
· Ability to structure processes and embed legal controls in business operations.
You are:
· Business-oriented and able to translate legal risk into clear, actionable advice.
· Pragmatic, solution-driven and collaborative.
· Comfortable interacting with senior stakeholders.
· Autonomous, hands-on and well-organised.
Languages required:
· Fluent in English and French (additional EU languages are an asset).
Offer
Nichols offers a challenging and visible legal role with broad scope and direct business impact. You will join a dynamic environment where the legal function plays a key role in strategic decision-making. A competitive remuneration package is offered, in line with experience.