Legal Advisor (Trading)

About NOA:

Established in 2022, NOA is a leading renewable energy independent power producer (IPP) and energy trader, licensed by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa. We empower commercial and industrial companies to reach their net-zero goals while securing long-term energy savings. Backed by R3.9 billion in equity capital from Old Mutual’s African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM), we currently have 600 MW of owned generation capacity under construction, and another 300 MW of capacity under construction by IPPs where we are the off takers. 

At NOA, we believe that energy is life; it is the pulse that powers our industries, empowers our communities, and builds our societies. We are currently at a unique, once-in-a-generation moment in South African history, similar to the birth of the gold industry or the mobile revolution. It is a mission-critical time, and we have the right partners and expertise to shape the creation of an entirely new energy landscape. 

What truly sets us apart is The NOA Way—our intentionally crafted culture and roadmap for excellence. We aren't just a utility; we are a tight, high-functioning team of "all-in" problem solvers who lean into complexity to find original solutions. We speak simply, act big, and step forward to own the changes our nation needs. 

Our impact is immense: we are here to solve the immediate energy crisis, fuel the growth of the South African economy, and create a global blueprint for a decarbonised future. We are building a phenomenal team to do something magnificent together, and we make sure to savour the journey along the way. 

Purpose of the role

The Legal Advisor in Trading will be responsible to negotiate and draft PPAs (Power Purchase Agreements) whereby NOA will procure energy from Independent Power Producers. A draft PPA and Heads of Terms do exist, but the Senior Legal Advisor will need to tailor these to be fit for purpose.

Key Responsibilities

• Supporting on the implementation of various transactions and bringing renewable energy project transactions to close through the negotiation, preparation and review of all legal agreements
• Leading the legal review, negotiation and approval of different Project documents (Power Purchase Agreements) and finance documents
• Leading the legal due diligence process on project acquisition targets
• Supporting the structuring of transactions and negotiating financing and related transaction documents
• Coordinating with other departments to meet timelines and deliverables
• Supporting the team in the acquisition of secondary market opportunities
• Supporting the development team on tender/RFP submissions, if required
• Assisting on the negotiation with project sponsors & lenders
• Managing the drafting of various notices and obtaining various consents in accordance with the lender’s CP Checklist
• Managing the Conditions Precedent (CP) Checklist; and leading the legal review on the preparation and implementation of transaction documents as required

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in law
• 4-5 years of relevant banking and finance, corporate and project experience
• At least 3 years of experience on PPA transactions
• Renewable energy Project experience is highly advantageous

Technical Competence

• In-depth knowledge of PPAs
• Research and analysis skills
• Contract drafting
• Legal negotiation skills
• In-depth knowledge and understanding of relevant legislation

Behavioral Competence

• Strong written and verbal communication
• Strong negotiating ability
• Commercially and solutions driven
• Ability to work under pressure and to manage a number of complex transactions
• Flexible, with positive attitude and ability to work well as part of a team
• Methodical and analytical
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to build and maintain good relationships with key stakeholders

Why join NOA?

A Once-in-a-Career Mission:  

Joining NOA is an invitation to be part of a growing team at the very forefront of the South African renewable energy industry. We are a dynamic, mission-driven organisation with strong financial backing and a deep commitment to unlocking a just energy transition for our nation. This is a unique moment in history—a chance to shape a new industry from its inception.  

The NOA Way: Culture by Design  

We don't leave our culture to chance; we have intentionally crafted a roadmap called The NOA Way to ensure our business is a remarkable place that houses your highest aspirations. We are "all-in" problem solvers who think big and move with speed to make a significant impact. We value "Performance Connections," the belief that through genuine collaboration, we can achieve results far greater than the sum of our individual parts.  

Investment in Your Evolution:  

We provide a world-class environment designed to help you thrive in a demanding sector:  

• The Powerkit: Every new team member participates in a day-long offsite "experience" in Cape Town to master the skills needed to excel within the NOA system.  

• Continuous Growth: You will benefit from a constant feedback loop through our "RAP" (Review, Analyse, Plan) cadence, alongside coaching resources and "lunch and learns" to own your career path. 

• Supportive Wellbeing: We promote true work-life integration with flexible hours, hybrid work-from-home options, and wellness initiatives specifically designed to "refuel your tank".  

Competitive Reward & Equity:  

We recognise and reward exceptional performance with a framework that allows you to participate in our collective success:  

• Market-Leading Compensation: We offer a competitive salary tailored to your experience level.  

• Incentives for Impact: You will be eligible for a performance-related short-term incentive (STI) bonus.  

• Ownership Culture: We offer meaningful equity investment exposure through our staff share scheme, ensuring you are truly invested in the future we are building.