Head of Legal, Regional

An outstanding opportunity presents itself for a distinguished legal professional to assume the esteemed position of Regional Head of Legal, based in Kuala Lumpur for this professional services provider. This role offers the privilege of shaping and directing the legal function across a diverse and expanding group, working in close partnership with business units to advance strategic objectives and uphold rigorous regulatory compliance.

This role offers the following exciting opportunities:

• Direct the legal function across multiple jurisdictions, offering authoritative guidance on regulatory, transactional, and contentious matters while supporting sustainable business growth.
• Collaborate with senior management and the board to ensure legal strategy is harmonised with corporate objectives.
• Occupy a highly visible position that affords opportunities for professional enrichment, cross-functional engagement, and meaningful contributions to the cultivation of company culture and values.

What you'll do:

In your capacity as Regional Head of Legal, you will be entrusted with guiding the entire legal function for the group across several countries. Your remit will encompass providing high-level advice on complex transactions, regulatory developments, dispute resolution processes, and risk assessment strategies.

The primary responsibilities are:

• Provide comprehensive legal and compliance counsel to the board and executive management on transactional, contentious, and regulatory matters spanning multiple jurisdictions.
• Represent the organisation in managing disputes, conducting negotiations, and overseeing relationships with external counsel to safeguard corporate interests.
• Contribute substantively to organisational policy formulation by aligning strategic goals with business functions and monitoring progress throughout the year.
• Supervise data protection responsibilities within the organisation, ensuring full adherence to relevant legislation such as the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA).
• Conduct research, evaluate potential risks associated with business decisions and operations, and recommend effective solutions to mitigate liabilities.
• Develop standard contract terms, conditions, templates, and oversee their implementation across various business units.
• Deliver educational programmes on key legal topics including Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Anti-Bribery measures, corruption prevention, and other compliance-related subjects.
• Lead incident investigations in concert with Risk teams, providing clear guidance to management during critical situations.
• Assist in coordinating reviews conducted by internal or external auditors and regulators to ensure ongoing compliance with industry standards.
• Manage all corporate and commercial legal matters whilst working closely with senior management to comprehend strategic initiatives and evolving business requirements.

What you bring:

To excel as Regional Head of Legal, your credentials should reflect profound expertise acquired through both private practice at leading law firms as well as practical experience within sophisticated in-house environments. Your familiarity with cross-border regulations—particularly those affecting financial services—will enable you to navigate complex legislative frameworks with assurance.

You must possess the following:

• Qualified lawyer possessing 10-15 years post-qualification experience including at least five years in a preeminent law firm coupled with three years in an in-house advisory capacity within financial services or regulatory environments.
• Comprehensive knowledge of laws and regulations pertinent to Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, China, and Australia as relevant to group operations.
• Demonstrated history of advising on legal matters within major financial institutions or capital markets regulatory authorities.
• Exceptional aptitude for resolving complex issues efficiently through advanced negotiation skills.
• Exemplary written and verbal communication abilities complemented by refined interpersonal skills for cultivating trust at all organisational levels.
• Proven experience distilling intricate legal concepts into accessible guidance for non-legal stakeholders.
• Executive presence marked by gravitas; adept at influencing senior stakeholders whilst articulating nuanced issues effectively.
• Collaborative disposition focused on enhancing teamwork across functions; skilled at managing senior stakeholders within cross-functional settings.
• Capacity for independent work combined with strategic thinking regarding long-term risks and opportunities for the enterprise.
• A team-oriented approach evidenced by prior leadership roles overseeing legal or compliance professionals.

What sets this company apart:

The inclusive culture prioritises open channels of communication between departments so that every voice is acknowledged and valued. Within this team-oriented workplace, your efforts will not only be recognised but celebrated as integral components of broader organisational accomplishments.

What's next:

If you aspire to make an enduring contribution by guiding legal strategy at the highest echelon within a respected regional group, this is your distinguished opportunity—embrace it without hesitation.

Apply today by clicking on the link provided; take this significant step towards advancing your career as Regional Head of Legal.

Do note that we will only be in touch if your application is shortlisted.

Licence Number : JTKSM 423C