Commercial Counsel (BASF-Chemetall)

BASF/Chemetall, is the Surface Treatment global business unit of BASF’s Coatings division, operating under the Chemetall brand, and a leading supplier of applied surface treatments worldwide. At BASF/Chemetall, we develop and manufacture tailor-made technology and system solutions for applied surface technology. Our products protect metals from corrosion, facilitate forming and treatment, prepare parts optimally for the painting process and ensure excellent coating adhesion. Our technologies and products are used in a variety of industries and end markets such as automotive, aerospace, aluminum finishing and metal forming.

The chemical treatment of metal surfaces is BASF/Chemetall core competence. The focus of our worldwide activities is on the development and implementation of customized technology and system solutions for surface treatment.

BASF and Carlyle, in partnership with Qatar Investment Authority, have entered into a binding agreement related to BASF’s automotive coatings and surface treatment businesses (including Chemetall). Subject to customary regulatory approvals, the transaction is expected to close in Q2 2026. This position is integral to the completion of the transaction and future success of the business.

We are seeking an experienced legal professional for the position of Commercial Counsel for Chemetall U.S., Inc.; this individual can be based in New Providence, NJ or Jackson, MI.

This position will be responsible for providing and managing the legal advice to BASF Coatings’ business unit Chemetall in the US. Prior legal experience with commercial transactions as well as competition and corporate law in an in-house, international environment is required. This position will further help to anticipate potential litigation and compliance risks, and provide training on key legal topics.

As a Commercial Counsel (ECT-Chemetall), you create chemistry by...

• Provide strategic and day-to-day legal and compliance advice, training and support to business management and operational personnel of Chemetall U.S., Inc.
• Review, revise, and negotiate commercial documents, a.o. for the purchase or sale of goods or services, contract manufacturing, collaboration and confidentiality agreements; provide legal support to business partners in contract review, negotiations, and strategy.
• Serve as legal counsel on global and North American regional M&A transactions and other strategic projects of the business unit in support of the business and the Legal Department.
• Advise and support in disputes and litigation, including management of external counsel.
• Identify issues requiring input and support from business and functional support units and engage in cross-functional teams to ensure complete and efficient resolution of all matters and transactions.
• Implement global BASF Coatings and Chemetall policies and guidelines, advise on their US law impact, and train the personnel of Chemetall U.S., Inc. accordingly.
• Develop a thorough understanding and familiarity with BASF Coatings’ and Chemetall’s business to identify trends and formulate strategies accordingly.
• Lead and support compliance related projects and topics.

If you have...

• Juris Doctorate and active license to practice law in at least one U.S. state.
• Minimum seven (7) years of legal experience required; prior in-house legal experience in an international, manufacturing environment preferred.
• Proficiency in the area of commercial transactions, such as sales, procurement and/or manufacturing, and including negotiation leads, as well as proficiency in US antitrust laws required; some knowledge of ex-US competition law preferred. Mergers and Acquisitions / Divestments experience required.
• Excellent ability to network and collaborate, organized and detail oriented.
• Commitment to client service in a fast-paced business environment, proactive, resourceful, responsive, and efficient. Ability to pragmatically and concisely communicate complex legal issues to non-lawyers and all levels of personnel and management.
• Equity-driven with demonstrated ability to excel in a dynamic environment and work well with people from diverse demographics.
• Ability to demonstrate sound and independent judgment with an understanding of the business environment .

Create your own chemistry with you@BASF

At BASF, you will have the chance to do meaningful work towards building a more sustainable future. In addition to competitive compensation and benefits, BASF provides you with access to a wide range of elements to help you be your best. It’s what we call you@BASF . We are committed to providing benefits, programs, and opportunities that support our employees’ overall well-being, personal growth, and a safe, collaborative, and inclusive work environment.

Just some of the many benefits we offer include:

• Flexible work arrangements whenever possible
• Highly competitive retirement savings plan with company match and investment options
• Well-being programs that include comprehensive mental health support for you and your household family members
• Family forming benefits (fertility, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, maternity/parental leave, and more)
• Back-up child and elder care with discount programs for families of all ages and stages
• Mentoring and career development opportunities that allow you to share, learn, and thrive
• Matching gifts program that allows you to deepen the impact of your contributions to qualified charities.
• Employee crisis support for when the unexpected happens
• Access to our BASF wine cellar, employee discounts, and much more!

About us

As one of the largest chemical companies in North America we have been finding solutions for your everyday needs and addressing the most complex economic, environmental, and sustainability challenges for more than 150 years!

At BASF we empower our employees with the tools, guidance and opportunities they need to advance and succeed in work and life. Giving you the support you need to be your best and fulfill your personal ambitions is what helps us create chemistry. After all, our success is linked to yours. Whatever path you envision, BASF is a great place to build a rewarding, successful career.

Belong to Something Bigger. #belongatBASF

Privacy statement

BASF takes security & data privacy very seriously. We will never request financial information of any kind via email, private text message or direct message on any social medial platform or job board. Furthermore, we will never send a candidate a check for equipment or request any type of payment during the job application process. If you have experienced any of the above, please contact [email protected] to report fraud.

Pay transparency

BASF is committed to pay transparency practices. The competitive Pay Range for this role is $190,000-$250,000 USD. Actual pay will be determined based on education, certifications, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

Equal employment opportunities

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, citizenship, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, disability status, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.