Legal Counsel

Chiquita is a leading global company with 20,000 employees across 30 countries. We are passionate about our nutritious, high-quality, energy-rich and value-added bananas.

Chiquita's products are sold in nearly 70 countries around the world. Chiquita Brands International grows, procures, markets and sells bananas and other fresh fruits under the Chiquita brand and other names.

Position Summary

As a member of the Corporate Legal team, you will report to the Head of Legal and Corporate Secretary. In this role, you will be responsible for managing and implementing all aspects of corporate governance and providing legal support to Chiquita's Sales and Marketing teams, as well as operations across Europe and the Middle East. Success in this position requires strong organizational skills, proactivity, independence, confidence, and the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse business groups.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Support European business units in drafting and negotiating commercial contracts, including sales agreements, leases, and service provider contracts.
• Assist the Global Marketing Team in implementing new campaigns, promotions, contests, and related initiatives.
• In collaboration with the Head of Legal, support the Corporate Legal Department in transactional work, including financing, mergers and acquisitions, due diligence, and coordination with outside counsel.
• Work closely with Treasury, Tax, Controllership, Audit, and Compliance teams to ensure adherence to all company policies, procedures, and legal requirements.
• Provide guidance on EU regulatory matters, particularly regarding labeling, advertising, and data protection.
• Manage the Corporate Secretary's office for Europe and the Middle East, including identifying and overseeing all required corporate actions for group companies in the region.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• University degree from an accredited university
• Recognized legal qualification
• At least 5 year experience working as in-house lawyer in an international company (preferably in the food industry) or within a law firm as transactional lawyer.

Job Requirements:

• Experience in corporate law and in drafting general commercial contracts
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills required
• Proficiency in both written and verbal English is a must. In addition, proficiency in Italian and/or Spanish would be strongly preferred
• Commercial awareness and a practical approach to problem solving
• Team player spirit with flexibility, excellent interpersonal skills and sensitivity to cultural diversity
• Strong attention to detail and superior organizational skills
• Ability to independently prioritize and manage a heavy workload, often under tight time constraints
• Have a positive "can do" attitude and be humble, confident, independent, curious and dedicated to achieving results

Demonstrated professional maturity and ability to manage sensitive/ confidential tasks and information

What We Offer:

• Competitive compensation and benefits package
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic, international environment within the food supply chain
• A collaborative team culture committed to quality, sustainability, and growth
• Exposure to global markets and international trade processes

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