Legal Manager for Contract drafting, litigation from Renewable Energy, Mumbai

1)  Job Purpose

The Manager Legal for Land Acquisition in the Renewable Business is a critical role responsible for overseeing all legal aspects related to the acquisition of land for renewable energy projects in India. This position is crucial for ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations, negotiating land contracts, resolving legal issues, and mitigating potential risks associated with land acquisition. The manager will work closely with various internal teams, external stakeholders, government authorities, and legal experts to ensure smooth and successful land acquisition processes for renewable projects.

Due Diligence

• Conduct comprehensive title due diligence on potential solar and wind project sites across India to assess the legal status of the land, identify any encumbrances or disputes, and evaluate associated risks.
• Highlighting issues and suggesting corrective measures to ensure clear title to the Company 
• Collaborate with external legal experts and consultants, if required, to perform thorough land assessments.
• Implement risk management strategies to safeguard the organization's interests during the land acquisition process.

Legal Compliance

• Stay up-to-date with relevant laws, regulations, and policies related to land acquisition, environment, and renewable energy in India.
• Advise the management and project teams on legal implications and compliance requirements with central, state and local laws for land acquisition activities.

Land Acquisition Negotiations

• Drafting, reviewing, and standardization of land aggregation agreements, lawyer engagement, title deeds, affidavits, ATS/GPA, LOI etc. 
• Review of loan agreements, facility agreements, deed of hypothecation with close co-ordination with lenders
• Co-ordination with Legal, Land and Finance team to ensure execution of mortgage documents within timelines as per loan agreements
• Providing overall legal advice on security creation in favor of lenders 

Regulatory Approvals

• Coordinate with government agencies and regulatory bodies to obtain necessary permits, clearances, and approvals for land acquisition and renewable projects.
• Ensure compliance with all statutory requirements for land acquisition and project development

Dispute Resolution

• Proactively identify potential disputes related to land acquisition and work towards their resolution through negotiations, mediation, or legal proceedings if necessary.
• Liaise with external legal counsel when required to handle disputes and litigation related to land matters

Documentation and Recordkeeping

• Maintain accurate and organized records of all legal documents, contracts, and agreements related to land acquisition and project development.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with internal teams, including project managers, finance, and compliance, to ensure effective coordination and alignment of land acquisition activities.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with landowners, communities, and local stakeholders to foster successful project development.

Category

Essential for this role

Good to have

Education and Qualifications

Law Graduate (LLB)

LLM

Work Experience

7 – 10 yrs. In land title due diligence, review of financing and mortgage agreements etc.

Prior experience in infrastructure projects especially renewable power projects will be added advantage

Technical / Professional Skills

• Good knowledge of land laws in India 
• Exceptional verbal and written communications skills
• Strong negotiation skills and experience in handling land acquisition agreements and contracts.
• Problem-solving attitude with an eye for detail and accuracy.

Non-Technical / Soft Skills

• Ability to work with multiple stakeholders with a solution-oriented approach
• High level of commitment to work
• Ability to work independently, handle multiple projects simultaneously, and meet tight deadlines.