* Head of Legal - Europe
* Up to €100k
* Monchengladbach, Germany (HQ)
* Hybrid working - 3 days in office
* German and English fluency
Oakleaf Partnership is proud to be supporting a leading global manufacturer within the industrial and energy sector - a business at the forefront of power drive system solutions, operating at scale across Europe and beyond.
With thousands of employees across the continent and a significant presence in Germany, the business is now seeking a Head of Legal (Europe) to lead its legal function across multiple jurisdictions. This is a senior and visible role with real breadth - covering legal operations, compliance, governance, and strategic advisory in a complex, fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Legal Leadership & Compliance:
Take ownership of legal strategy across Europe - with a focus on Germany. Lead contract negotiations, establish compliance frameworks, and provide proactive legal guidance to the business.
Subsidiary & Governance Support:
Manage the full legal lifecycle for European subsidiaries. Prepare governance documentation, support legal structuring, and ensure alignment across jurisdictions.
Dispute Resolution & Risk:
Oversee litigation, arbitration, and internal investigations. Coordinate with external counsel and embed risk management across legal operations.
Cross-functional Business Partnering:
Partner with stakeholders across Sales, Procurement, HR and more. Support M&A activity and contribute to wider commercial decisions with legal clarity.
Candidate profile:
* Qualified lawyer (Germany or equivalent); strong experience in international legal environments.
* 5+ years' post-qualification experience, ideally within industrial/manufacturing or B2B global businesses.
* Expert understanding of German legal systems, including commercial, corporate, labour law, and compliance.
* Fluent in German and English (essential); Chinese is advantageous but not essential.
* Strong communicator with cross-cultural fluency and a pragmatic, solution-led mindset.
Ready to apply?
If you would like to be considered for this opportunity or have any questions, please apply to frankieglarvey@oakleafpartnership.com for more information.