Head of Legal & Corporate Affairs, South East Asia

We are a dynamic and rapidly expanding company operating across the vibrant South East Asian landscape. With a diverse portfolio spanning e-commerce, media, and retail, we are committed to innovation, growth, and delivering exceptional value to our customers, parents. Our team of approximately 250 dedicated employees operates across 7 countries, and we are seeking a highly motivated and entrepreneurial legal professional to spearhead our legal and corporate affairs in this crucial region.

The Opportunity:

This is a unique opportunity for a proactive and business-minded legal counsel to build and lead the legal function for our South East Asian operations. You will be instrumental in shaping our legal strategy, mitigating risks, and ensuring compliance across a complex and diverse regulatory environment. This role demands a hands-on approach, a deep understanding of the South East Asian business landscape, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial setting. You will be the primary point of contact for all legal matters, working closely with internal stakeholders and external counsel to drive our continued success.

Key Responsibilities:

Contract Management & Negotiation:

Draft, review, negotiate, and manage a wide range of commercial contracts, including but not limited to, supplier agreements, customer terms and conditions, partnership agreements, licensing agreements, and employment contracts.

Develop and implement standardized contract templates and processes to ensure efficiency and consistency.

Advise on contractual risks and liabilities, proposing practical solutions.

Regulatory Compliance & Government Relations:

Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations across the 7 South East Asian countries of operation, including but not limited to, corporate law, data privacy, consumer protection, advertising standards, and employment law.

Proactively monitor changes in legislation and regulatory frameworks, advising the business on potential impacts and necessary adjustments.

Manage relationships with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and local authorities, facilitating necessary filings, licenses, and permits.

Develop and implement compliance programs and training for employees.

Corporate Governance & Filings:

Oversee corporate governance matters, including board resolutions, shareholder communications, and statutory filings in each jurisdiction.

Manage the legal aspects of company formations, registrations, and dissolutions as needed.

Ensure accurate and timely submission of all required legal and regulatory documentation.

Risk Management & Dispute Resolution:

Identify, assess, and mitigate legal and business risks across the region.

Develop and implement strategies for effective risk management.

Manage and resolve legal disputes, including pre-litigation negotiations and, where necessary, liaising with external counsel for litigation.

Strategic Legal Counsel:

Provide strategic legal advice to senior management and business units on a wide range of legal and business issues.

Act as a trusted advisor, translating complex legal concepts into actionable business insights.

Contribute to the development and execution of business strategies from a legal perspective.

External Counsel Management:

Identify, engage, and manage relationships with external legal counsel in various South East Asian jurisdictions.

Oversee the work of external counsel, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality of service.

Provide clear instructions and manage budgets for external legal support.

Team Development (Future Growth):

As the legal function grows, you will be responsible for building and mentoring a high-performing legal team.

What We're Looking For:

Entrepreneurial Spirit:A proactive, innovative mindset self-starter with a strong business acumen and a desire to build and shape a legal function. You are comfortable with ambiguity and can identify opportunities for improvement and innovation beyond traditional legal rolese.g., spotting business opportunities in regulatory changes or advising on sustainable growth strategies.

South East Asian Expertise:Proven experience working with legal and regulatory frameworks across multiple South East Asian countries. A deep understanding of the nuances and cultural considerations of the region is essential.

Broad Legal Experience:A strong foundation in corporate law, commercial contracts, regulatory compliance, and general corporate governance. Experience in e-commerce, media, or retail law is a significant advantage.

Exceptional Communication & Negotiation Skills:Ability to communicate complex legal issues clearly and concisely to non-legal stakeholders, and to negotiate effectively with internal and external parties.

Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills:A sharp analytical mind with the ability to identify legal issues, assess risks, and develop practical, business-oriented solutions.

Adaptability & Resilience:Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, and evolving business environment. Comfortable working in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment, collaborating with non-legal teams, and contributing to strategic decisions.

Strong Project Management Skills:Ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, and projects simultaneously.

Integrity & Professionalism:Unquestionable ethical standards and a commitment to upholding the highest levels of professional conduct.

Language Proficiency:Fluency in English is essential. Proficiency in at least one other major South East Asian language is a strong asset.

Qualifications:

Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent law degree from a reputable institution.

Admission to the bar in at least one relevant jurisdiction.

Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive legal experience, with a significant portion gained in-house or in a law firm advising businesses operating in South East Asia.

Demonstrated experience managing legal matters across multiple jurisdictions.

Why Join Us

Be at the forefront of legal innovation in a rapidly growing and exciting industry.

Play a pivotal role in shaping the legal strategy of a multi-national company.

Work in a dynamic and entrepreneurial environment with a talented and diverse team.

Opportunity for significant professional growth and development.

Competitive salary and benefits package.