To keep our promise and in line with our growth strategy, the airline intends to recruit.
LEGAL AND SECRETARIAT MANAGER
Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons to fill in the position of Legal and Secretariat Manager based in Lilongwe. The role holder will be reporting to the Chief Executive Officer.
Job Summary
- Employer: Malawi Airlines Limited
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Legal
- Closing Date: 2026-10-16
Key Responsibilities
- Provide timely and sound legal advice to Management and the Board on all legal matters affecting the airline.
- Manage and oversee all litigation, disputes, and court cases for and against Malawi Airlines, including labour, commercial, contractual, and aviation-related claims.
- Represent the Airline or liaise with and manage external lawyers, ensuring cost-effective and favorable outcomes.
- Draft, review, vet contracts and agreements with suppliers, lessors, service providers, and partners.
- Manage legal risk, maintain litigation register, and provide regular litigation status reports to management.
- Serve as Secretary to the Board of Directors and Subcommittees.
- Plan and manage Board and Committee meetings including preparation of annual Board calendar, agendas, Board packs, and taking minutes.
- Ensure safe custody of Board and statutory records.
- Advise the Board on corporate governance best practices.
- Facilitate Board evaluations, Director induction and continuous development.
- Ensure compliance with Malawi Companies Act and other applicable aviation laws.
- Act as liaison officer with Registrar of Companies, Ministry of Justice, Judiciary, and other regulators.
- Ensure timely statutory filings and renewal of licenses, permits and regulatory approvals.
- Custodian of the Company’s legal and compliance framework. including development of corporate policies.
- Perform any other duties assigned from time to time.
Requirements
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB) Honours Degree from a recognized university. Must be admitted to the Malawi Bar.
- Master’s Degree in Business Law, Commercial Law or Corporate Law will be an added advantage.
- Possession of ICSA/Chartered Secretary qualification or training in Corporate Secretarial practice is highly desirable.
- Minimum of 7-10 years post-qualification experience, with at least 3 years in a senior legal role.
- Experience in aviation, parastatal or listed company is an added advantage.
- Proven experience in handling court litigation and Board secretariat functions.
How to Apply
About the Company
Malawi Airlines Limited is the national flag carrier of Malawi, operating scheduled passenger and cargo services from its hub at Lilongwe's Kamuzu International Airport. Established as a registered partnership between the Malawi Government and Ethiopian Airlines Enterprise, the airline connects domestic destinations including Blantyre and Mzuzu with international routes across Southern and Eastern Africa. The company maintains its headquarters in Lilongwe and employs aviation professionals throughout Malawi's major cities. As Malawi's designated national airline, it plays a vital role in facilitating business travel, tourism, and trade for one of Africa's most scenic nations.
Your Wings of Africa
Website: https://www.malawian-airlines.com/aa/corporate/about-us/career
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Legal and Secretariat Manager role at a Malawian airline?
A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from a recognized Malawian or international university is essential, plus admission to the Malawi Bar. Many employers also prefer candidates with postgraduate qualifications in corporate governance, aviation law, or an MBA. Professional certifications such as ICSA or CISI are highly valued for secretariat responsibilities.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Legal and Secretariat Manager in Malawi?
You will draft and review contracts, manage regulatory compliance with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malawi, and oversee company secretarial duties including board meetings and statutory filings. The role also involves advising senior management on legal risks, handling litigation matters, and ensuring adherence to the Companies Act and aviation regulations. You may also coordinate with external counsel and government agencies on permits and licenses.
How does the local work culture in Malawi affect this legal management role?
Malawian workplaces value respect for hierarchy and personal relationships, so building trust with colleagues and regulators through face-to-face meetings is important. Punctuality is expected in formal settings, though flexibility around time is common in practice. You should be prepared to navigate bureaucratic processes patiently and demonstrate cultural sensitivity when dealing with diverse stakeholders including government officials and international partners.
What career progression opportunities exist for Legal and Secretariat Managers in Malawi's aviation sector?
With strong performance, you can advance to General Counsel, Company Secretary, or Director-level positions within the airline or group companies. Some professionals transition into regulatory roles with the Civil Aviation Authority or join international aviation organizations. Others move into private practice specializing in aviation and corporate law, or pursue opportunities with multinational corporations operating in Malawi.
What employee benefits are typically offered for senior legal positions at Malawian airlines?
Standard benefits usually include annual leave of 18-24 days, medical aid coverage through schemes like MASM or Liberty Health, and pension contributions through NICO or other approved providers. Some employers offer travel privileges on partner airlines, housing allowances, and performance bonuses. The specific package varies by employer and your level of experience.
How should I apply for a Legal and Secretariat Manager position in Malawi, and what do employers prioritize?
Submit a comprehensive CV highlighting your legal qualifications, corporate governance experience, and any aviation sector exposure through email or the employer's online portal as specified in the job advertisement. Employers prioritize demonstrated experience with Malawian company law, strong drafting skills, and proven ability to manage board secretariat functions. Include references from senior legal practitioners or company directors, and be prepared for multiple interview rounds including technical assessments.