Job Objectives
Provide strategic leadership and oversight of the Legal Services Department, ensuring that the Company's interests are fully protected in all legal and regulatory matters.
Lead the development, review, and implementation of legal policies, frameworks, and processes that safeguard the Company's operations and reputation.
Serve as the principal legal advisor to executive management, the Board, and business units on all legal and compliance matters.
Duties & Responsibilities
Provide strategic legal guidance and support to the Company's leadership on business decisions, transactions, and risk management.
Oversee the drafting, negotiation, and review of high-value and complex contracts to ensure the Company's interests are protected.
Ensure effective governance, legal compliance, and risk management across all business operations and units.
Represent the Company in engagements with regulators, external counsel, and other stakeholders on legal and compliance matters.
Manage relationships with external solicitors and ensure cost-effective and satisfactory resolution of outsourced matters.
Supervise the custody, management, and retrieval of legal instruments, executed contracts, and other critical documents.
Provide leadership to the Legal Services team by setting performance goals, mentoring staff, and building legal capacity within the department.
Develop and maintain a robust compliance framework to ensure adherence to applicable laws, regulations, and corporate policies.
Provide timely updates to the Board and Executive Management on emerging legal risks, regulatory changes, and litigation matters.
Requirements
Education:
Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) and Call to the Nigerian Bar (B.L).
A postgraduate degree (LL.M or MBA) and relevant professional certifications (e.g., ICSAN, IBA) will be an added advantage.
Experience
Minimum of 10 years post-call legal experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within the financial services, fintech, or a reputable commercial law firm.
Proven expertise in corporate and commercial law, contract negotiation, regulatory compliance, and governance.
Strong track record in managing complex legal matters and leading legal teams.
Skills & Competencies:
Excellent knowledge of Company Law, Contract Law, and Financial Services Regulations.
Exceptional leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to influence and build strong relationships with key stakeholders.