Job Purpose
The Sacco Legal Officer provides legal advisory services, ensures regulatory compliance, manages contracts, oversees litigation, and protects the Sacco from legal and compliance risks. The role ensures the Sacco operates within the laws governing co-operatives, SASRA regulations, data protection laws, labour laws, and other relevant legislation.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
The Incumbent will report to the Chief Executive Officer and will be responsible for:
Legal Advisory & Compliance:
Provide timely legal advice to Management, Board, and departments on matters affecting the Sacco.
Ensure compliance with the Co-operative Societies Act, SASRA Regulations, Data Protection Act, Employment Act, and all applicable laws.
Review, develop, and update policies, procedures, bylaws, and governance documents.
Monitor legal and regulatory changes and advise the Sacco accordingly.
Coordinate and respond to regulatory inspections, audits, and compliance reviews (SASRA, Commissioner for Cooperatives, Data Commissioner).
Human Resource & Administrative Legal Support:
Advise on disciplinary cases, staff contracts, termination processes, and labour disputes.
Ensure compliance with labour laws and HR policies.
Litigation and Dispute Management:
Manage all litigation matters involving the Sacco and liaise with external advocates.
Prepare instructions to advocates and ensure timely submission of supporting documents.
Monitor case progress, prepare reports, and recommend action.
Support debt recovery processes through legal mechanisms (demands, CRB listings, court action).
Governance Support :
Provide legal guidance to the Board, Board Committees, and Management.
Assist in preparation of Board papers relating to legal and compliance matters.
Ensure adherence to corporate governance standards and the Sacco code of conduct.
Contract Management:
Draft, review, and negotiate all Sacco contracts, MOUs, leases, service agreements, and partnership documents.
Ensure contracts protect Sacco interests and comply with laws and internal policies.
Maintain a proper and secure contracts registry.
Records & Legal Documentation:
Manage legal files, contracts library, insurance policies, and statutory documents.
Ensure proper custody of legal and corporate documents.
Member & Customer Issues:
Handle customer complaints requiring legal interpretation.
Support alternative dispute resolution between members and the Sacco.
Qualifications & Experience
Must have a Bachelor's degree in Law (LLB) from an accredited law school
At least two years post admission.
Must possess a valid practicing certificate;
Be a Registered member of the Law society of Kenya in good standing;
Knowledge of the Sacco business model & other operational issues of the Sacco;
Good analytical, communication, and writing skills;
Excellent organization and interpersonal skills.
Attention to detail.