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.
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.
Contract Management
· Draft, negotiate and manage commercial contracts, NDAs, templates and clauses.
· Ensure proper contract lifecycle management and risk mitigation.
Support corporate transactions (including M&A) and legal structuring.
· Product Compliance & Regulatory Affairs
· Monitor and ensure compliance with applicable product regulations across markets.
· Support product approvals (ingredients, labelling, SDS).
· Intellectual Property & Regulatory Affairs
· Support the Board and shareholders.
· Manage legal entity administration and corporate housekeeping.
Risk, Compliance, Litigation & Dispute Management
· Address competition law, anti-corruption, code of conduct and GDPR topics.
· 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.
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).
· Comfortable interacting with senior stakeholders.
· Languages required:
· Fluent in English and French (additional EU languages are an asset).