HEAD OF LEGAL

• Develop and implement legal strategies that align with the organizations objectives and regulatory
  requirements.
  
• Provide expert legal counsel and support to senior management on a range of issues including regulatory
  compliance contracts and risk management.
• Anticipate potential legal issues and proactively develop solutions to mitigate risks.
  

• Oversee the drafting review and negotiation of contracts with clients suppliers and partners to ensure legal protections and minimize risk.
  
• Manage contractual obligations ensure terms are enforceable and safeguard the organizations interests in
  all agreements.
  
• Work with the procurement finance and operations departments to develop standard contractual terms and conditions.
  

• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws regulations and licensing requirements specific to the
  microfinance sector.
  
• Stay updated on regulatory changes and advise the organization on necessary compliance measures.
  
• Work closely with the compliance team to design implement and monitor internal policies procedures and
  practices to meet regulatory requirements.
  

• Manage all litigation matters including representing the organization or coordinating with external legal
  counsel when necessary.
• Oversee dispute resolution processes including negotiations mediation and arbitration to reach favorable
  outcomes.
• Develop strategies to minimize litigation risk and enhance the organizations legal position in disputes.
  

• Identify assess and monitor legal risks across the organization and recommend corrective actions as needed.
  
• Develop and maintain policies on matters such as data protection intellectual property and customer privacy.
  
• Collaborate with the risk management team to address potential legal implications in the organizations risk framework.
  

• Advise the board of directors and executive management on corporate governance matters.
  
• Ensure compliance with corporate governance standards and legal reporting requirements.
  
• Maintain all corporate records minutes and documents ensuring adherence to legal and regulatory standards.
  

• Lead and mentor the legal team promoting professional development and fostering a culture of integrity accountability and compliance.
  
• Conduct performance evaluations set team goals and provide training to ensure high standards in legal operations.
  
• Coordinate with other departments to provide legal education and training on relevant topics such as contract management and compliance.
  

• Reduction in litigation cases and associated costs.
  
• Timely review and approval of contracts and legal documents.
  
• Compliance with regulatory and governance standards.
  
• Successful completion of legal and compliance audits.
  
• Effective management of legal risk exposure.

Requirements

• Bachelors degree in Law (LLB) from an accredited institution; a Masters degree in Law or Business
  Administration is an added advantage.
• Admission to the bar as an advocate of the high court of Kenya with good standing
  
• Additional certifications in compliance risk management or corporate governance are beneficial.
  
• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in legal practice with at least 5 years in a senior legal role preferably within the financial services or microfinance sector.
  
• Proven track record in contract negotiation litigation regulatory compliance and corporate governance.
  

• Legal and Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of laws and regulations relevant to the microfinance and financial services sector.
  
• Analytical and Strategic Thinking: Ability to identify assess and mitigate legal risks while aligning with the organizations goals.
  
• Strong Negotiation and Communication: Skilled in negotiating complex agreements and communicating effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
  
• Compliance Expertise: Knowledge of compliance standards and the ability to develop and monitor effective compliance programs.
  
• Corporate Governance: Understanding of corporate governance best practices and experience advising
  senior management and boards of directors.
• Leadership and Team Management: Proven experience in leading legal teams mentoring staff and fostering
  a culture of accountability and excellence.
• Problem-solving: Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills with a focus on protecting the organizations legal interests and reputation.