Legal Director, M&A

Location: Astana, Kazakhstan
Reports to: Head of Legal
Format: Full-time, office-based. Relocation is required.

We are looking for an experienced Legal Director, M&A to lead legal work on complex M&A, investment, capital markets and financing transactions across Kazakhstan, the CIS and international markets.

Reporting to the Head of Legal, you will manage transactions from structuring to closing and work directly with shareholders, beneficial owners, investment teams and external advisors.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead legal structuring, due diligence, drafting, negotiations and transaction execution.
• Draft and negotiate acquisition, investment, shareholders' and financing agreements.
• Advise on cross-border structures and legal matters involving English law, Kazakhstan law and AIFC regulations, supported by specialist counsel where needed.
• Identify legal and regulatory risks and recommend practical solutions.
• Coordinate external advisors and mentor junior lawyers.
• Support the Head of Legal on strategic matters and negotiations with senior stakeholders.

Requirements

• 8–10+ years of relevant experience in a leading law firm, investment fund, investment bank, major holding or corporate legal team.
• Proven ability to independently manage complex M&A and investment transactions.
• Strong practical knowledge of English law and experience drafting and negotiating transaction documents.
• Cross-border transaction experience involving CIS and international jurisdictions.
• Experience in capital markets and/or financing.
• Strong negotiation skills, commercial judgment and the ability to manage multiple transactions and senior stakeholder relationships.
• Fluency in Russian and English.
• Willingness to relocate to Astana and work from the office.

Knowledge of Kazakhstan law and AIFC regulations is a significant advantage.