Job Title
Head of Legal
Brightwater Executive is delighted to be retained exclusively by our client, Re-turn, in their search for a Head of Legal.
About the Company
Re-turn is at the heart of one of Ireland's most impactful environmental initiatives — the national Deposit Return Scheme. Since its launch in 2024, the organisation has enabled the return of over 1 billion bottles and cans, significantly reduced litter, and empowered communities to take real climate action. Backed by major industry stakeholders and driven by a not-for-profit mission, Re-turn is building a cleaner, more sustainable Ireland — and the journey is only beginning. This is an exciting opportunity to join a purpose-led team shaping the future of circular living.
About the Position
Reporting to the Chief Executive, the Head of legal will lead the development and execution of a legal strategy aligned with Re-turn's business and regulatory goals. Acting as a trusted advisor to the executive team, they will oversee legal risk, compliance, governance, and stakeholder engagement. The role includes managing contracts, supporting board governance, and advising on commercial, employment, and regulatory matters.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and implement a legal strategy aligned with Re-turn's business goals and regulatory obligations.
* Advise the CEO, CFO, and executive team on legal, compliance, and corporate governance matters.
* Draft, review, and negotiate key contracts and commercial agreements, ensuring optimal legal and commercial outcomes.
* Ensure compliance with Irish legislation, financial regulations, and corporate governance standards.
* Support the board of directors and company secretary on governance best practices.
* Lead contract negotiations and manage SLAs with suppliers and stakeholders.
* Oversee litigation, disputes, and regulatory matters, while developing risk mitigation strategies.
* Monitor legal and regulatory developments, advising leadership on potential impacts.
* Engage with regulatory agencies and government stakeholders to ensure project compliance and successful delivery.
Key Experience/Requirements
* Qualified solicitor with 10+ years post-qualification experience in corporate/commercial law, ideally with a producer or retailer background.
* Proven leadership managing legal teams in-house or at top law firms.
* Commercially savvy with strong expertise in corporate, commercial, and competition law.
* Experienced in contract negotiation, regulatory engagement, and managing legal risk aligned with business goals.
* Skilled communicator and strategic thinker, comfortable advising on national and EU legislation.
* Collaborative team player with a proactive "can do" attitude and ability to navigate complex legal environments.
Contact
For more information and/ or a confidential discussion on this
Head of Legal
opportunity, please send your CV to Yvonne McNulty at Brightwater Executive on