Senior Associate (ESG Desk) at AO2Law

Role Description

• The Senior Associate (ESG Desk) is a full-time role based in Lagos with a hybrid work arrangement, combining in-office collaboration with some work-from-home flexibility.
• The role involves advising clients on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) regulatory requirements, compliance frameworks, and risk management strategies.
• Day-to-day responsibilities include drafting and reviewing ESG-related policies and contractual clauses, preparing legal opinions and transaction documents, and supporting ESG due diligence in corporate and finance matters.
• The Senior Associate will monitor emerging ESG legislation and industry standards, prepare client alerts and thought leadership content, and contribute to internal know-how on sustainable finance and responsible business practices. The role also involves mentoring junior team members, engaging with clients and regulators, and supporting business development initiatives focused on ESG services.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years post-call experience
• Minimum of 2”1 in either BL or LLB
• Strong background in corporate, finance, or energy law with demonstrable experience in ESG, sustainability, or responsible business advisory.
• Knowledge of local and international ESG regulations, reporting standards, and frameworks (such as sustainable finance guidelines, corporate governance codes, and climate-related disclosure regimes).
• Excellent legal research, analytical, and drafting skills, including the ability to prepare clear opinions, transaction documents, and policy frameworks.
• Effective client-facing skills, including stakeholder management, presentation abilities, and experience working in cross-functional or cross-border teams.
• Ability to manage multiple matters concurrently, prioritize deadlines, and work both independently and collaboratively in a hybrid environment.
• Strong professional ethics, attention to detail, and commitment to innovation and continuous learning in the ESG space.
• Admission to practice law and a relevant law degree; postgraduate or professional certifications in ESG, sustainability, or compliance are an advantage.
• Prior experience in a commercial law firm or in-house legal team serving technology, energy, infrastructure, or finance clients is highly beneficial.