S&P Legal Advisor

Zodiac Maritime is an international ship operating company providing a full range of management services for a wide and diverse fleet of commercial ships, spanning containership to tankers, bulk carriers to PCTCs, and a growing orderbook focused on dual-fuel vessels to improve overall fleet energy efficiency.
Headquartered in London’s bustling West End, our modern, open-plan offices accommodate a growing team of over 200 people. With representative offices across Europe and Asia, our shore-based headcount grows as our fleet continues to expand and diversify, as does our dedicated crew of over 6,500 seafarers.
This is an exciting time for the company as we continue to grow and modernise our fleet and operations. We are looking for hard working and dynamic individuals to come aboard and be a part of the next generation of the Zodiac Maritime team!
Position:
S&P Legal Advisor
Reporting to:
Head of Sale and Purchase & Legal Counsel
Contact type:
Permanent
Location:
London
Overview of role
Working within Zodiac Maritime's busy Sale and Purchase Department, the successful candidate will be providing legal advise on the company's commercial activities. The department is very active in both vessel acquisitions, both newbuildings and second-hand tonnage, and sales of vessels within the fleet. Additionally, the role will include assistance to Zodiac's wider legal function on a broad range of corporate and commercial matters.
Key responsibilities and primary deliverables
Reviewing, drafting, arranging execution of all contracts and other documentation required in connection with transactions for the sale / purchase of a vessel, including:
Closing delivery documentation (including corporate authorities)
Flag State and Class documentation
CSRs
Advising on and facilitating the opening of escrow arrangements, including liaising with external lawyers as needed.
Coordinate LYC requirements alongside Group Compliance Department.
Maintaining Principal's compliance in relation to Flag State rules, UK Tonnage Tax rules and applicable laws for vessel recycling.
Communication and Coordination of Process
Liaising with the relevant external stakeholders, e.g. Flag State, Class, Lawyers, escrow agents, and reporting to relevant internal departments as required.
Updating all relevant departments with details issued by the representative flag state for an incoming vessel.
Reporting throughout the flag/name change process as necessary.
Transaction Completion Services
Preparing, and arranging the execution of required Flag State documents.
Coordinate with internal and external parties to ensure the successful organisation of the vessel's registration status.
Participate and represent Principals at closing meetings as and when required, which may include attendance outside of normal working hours.
Reports
Maintain accessible, updated and well organised filing system.
Ad hoc Projects
Undertake such other duties and tasks as required to assist in the smooth running of the S&P Department.
Participate in the S&P Department's growth with input and ideas for development initiatives.
Skills profile
Law degree.
3-4 years' previous experience in a maritime legal role.
Previous experience in S&P transactions.
Proven ability in drafting and reviewing core vessel transactional and registration documents.
Understanding the difference in vessel types, flag states, classification and commercial variables in shipping is a requirement for this role.
Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple projects and prioritise work streams under pressure and problem solve where required.
Ability to communicate complex legal problems in a clear and concise manner.
High level of analytical skills and strategic thinking ability to support decisions with sound reasoning and judgement.
Creative and lateral thinker.
Highly effective at building and sustaining relationships with all internal and external stakeholders, even in challenging situations.
Positive attitude, strong work ethic, collaborative in style and excellent communication skills.
Team player: to contribute to the success of the team by sharing knowledge and experience freely within the team. To assist other members if the team as required during busy periods or absences.
The ability to take ownership and holds oneself accountable.
Due to the high volume of applications, we regret that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.