Litigation and Dispute Resolution Specialist

Job Title/ Position: Litigation and Dispute Resolution Specialist    
Reports To:             Head of Legal
Location:                Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals FZE                    

Job Summary

The Litigation & Dispute Resolution Specialist supports the management of the Company’s litigation and dispute resolution matters to protect DPRP’s legal and commercial interests. The role focuses on monitoring cases, providing legal analysis, coordinating with internal stakeholders and external counsel, and ensuring timely and effective resolution of disputes. The position contributes to minimizing legal exposure, ensuring compliance with legal requirements, and supporting the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Lead with accurate reporting and case management.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

a.    Provide legal analysis and advice on dispute resolution and litigation matters to support informed decision-making and protect the Company’s interests.
b.    Monitor and assess the impact of new laws, regulations, and legal developments, and make recommendations to the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Lead.
c.    Manage and track litigation and dispute resolution matters (including ADR), ensuring effective handling and  minimization of legal exposure.
d.    Liaise with internal stakeholders to investigate disputes, ensure timely resolution, and escalate complex matters where necessary.
e.    Support the preparation and presentation of the Company’s legal position in litigation and dispute resolution proceedings.
f.     Coordinate and manage relationships with external counsel and regulatory bodies to ensure efficient service delivery and alignment with Company objectives.
g.    Conduct legal research, investigate issues, and collate relevant documentation to support case strategy and  reporting.
h.    Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all litigation and dispute resolution matters to ensure audit readiness and effective tracking.
i.     Monitor case progress and ensure timely action on key milestones, filings, and deliverables.

j.    Review and respond to claims, demand letters, and legal notices to ensure timely and appropriate action.
k.   Provide support on disputes arising from contracts and assist in debt recovery initiatives where required.
l.    Prepare periodic reports on litigation status, risks, and outcomes for the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Lead.
m.  Support the implementation of legal strategies and directives issued by the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Lead, General Counsel, and Company Secretary.
n.   Provide legal and administrative support on dispute-related matters as required.
o.   Perform other duties as assigned by the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Lead, General Counsel, or Company Secretary.

Key Requirements

Education and Work Experience

i.     Bachelor of Laws (LL.B).
ii.    Barrister-at-Law (B.L.) and qualification to practice in Nigeria.
iii.   A Master’s degree in Law (LL.M) is an added advantage.
Professional Qualification
iv.    Membership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is required.
Desired Experience
v.    Minimum of 8 years’ post-qualification experience in a legal function.
vi.    At least 5 years’ practical experience in litigation and dispute resolution, preferably gained in a top-tier law firm or within a manufacturing or multinational organization.

Functional Competencies

Technical / Functional Skills (Must Have)
a.   Strong knowledge of civil procedure rules applicable in Federal and State Courts in Nigeria.
b.   Sound knowledge of Nigerian case law, court processes, and dispute resolution mechanisms (litigation and ADR).
c.   Ability to conduct legal research and apply findings to dispute resolution strategies.
d.   Strong understanding of applicable laws and regulatory requirements impacting Company operations.
e.   Experience in handling litigation processes, including case preparation and documentation.
f.    Familiarity with regulatory and legal issues within a manufacturing or energy environment.
g.   Ability to review, analyse, and respond to claims, demand letters, and legal notices.
h.   Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools and legal documentation systems.

Behavioural / Soft Skills
i.    Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
ii.   Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
iii.  Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously.
iv.  Effective interpersonal and stakeholder management skills.
v.   Good negotiation and influence skills.
vi.  Ability to work independently while escalating complex issues appropriately.
vii. High level of integrity, professionalism, and sound judgment.
viii. Strong teamwork and collaboration skills