Legal Counsel

• Competitive annual leave package
• Reporting to the Head of Legal, APAC
• Ideally 3–7+ yrs PQE in a common law jurisdiction

Job Description

Job Title: Legal Counsel

Location: Central, Hong Kong

Company Overview

Our client is a global financial services company headquartered in active in over 35 markets and offices around the world.

Responsibilities

• Reporting to the Head of Legal, APAC.
• Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating a range of contracts relating to securities (mainly equities) and derivatives brokerage, settlements, technology, clearing, custody, and other related agreements.
• Reviewing and negotiating corporate and commercial agreements.
• Advising on financial services regulation, disputes, and data protection regulation.
• Providing legal support for the onboarding and implementation of major client projects.
• Delivering high-quality, commercially aware, and timely legal advice in an efficient, proactive manner.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Qualified to practice law in a common law jurisdiction; Hong Kong qualification is an advantage.
• Ideally 3–7+ years PQE in a common law jurisdiction. Candidates with less PQE may be considered if they have substantial financial services experience and/or strong contract negotiation experience.
• Familiarity with regulatory processes, rules, and codes in one or more of Australia, Hong Kong, and Singapore and Tokyo (Japan) if at all possible.
• Demonstrated experience and a strong track record from a law firm, financial services regulatory agency, exchange, or licensed financial services firm.
• Practical problem-solving mindset, with the ability to communicate legal risks clearly and concisely, along with strong drafting and negotiation skills.
• A “can-do” attitude—willing to learn, able to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Fluency in written and spoken English. Cantonese and Mandarin skills (written and verbal) are an advantage. Just English speakers will not be short-listed).
• Strong relationship-building skills across all internal and external stakeholders.
• Comfortable with computers and technology or willing to learn, and an understanding of how technology is applied to business and regulatory matters.

Company Benefits & Perks

• Competitive salary, annual performance-based bonus, and stock grant
• Excellent health and welfare benefits, including medical, dental, specialist, and in-patient coverage
• Competitive annual leave package
• Daily lunch provided in-house with a fully stocked kitchen
• Strong work-life balance
• Unique opportunity to gain exposure to global financial products, markets, and clients
• Opportunities for career progression and expanded job scope within a global company with growing local presence
• Hybrid work arrangement