Job Description: Head of Legal

Location: Chennai

Reports To: CRO

Department: Legal, Risk and Compliance

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Head of Legal to lead and oversee the company's legal operations. This leadership role involves managing all legal, compliance and regulatory matters within a rapidly evolving business environment. The Head of Legal will act as the primary legal advisor to the senior management team and Board of Directors, providing strategic guidance on corporate governance, legal risks, regulatory compliance and business transactions.

Key Responsibilities:

Legal Strategy & Leadership:

- Lead the development and execution of the company's legal strategy, ensuring alignment with business goals and risk management policies.

- Manage and mentor a high-performing legal team, ensuring effective delivery of legal services across the organization.

- Provide legal counsel to the CEO, Board of Directors and senior leadership on key business issues and regulatory matters.

Corporate Governance & Compliance:

- Oversee the company's corporate governance framework, ensuring full compliance with all applicable laws and industry regulations.

- Advise on corporate governance best practices and ensure the implementation of policies to safeguard ethical operations and legal compliance.

- Ensure that the organization complies with relevant statutory and regulatory requirements at the local and international levels.

Regulatory & Industry Compliance:

- Ensure that the company adheres to the legal and regulatory requirements specific to the industry, including compliance with regulatory bodies and industry standards.

- Keep the organization informed about changes in the regulatory environment and ensure prompt compliance with new or revised laws.

Contracts & Legal Documentation:

- Oversee the drafting, negotiation, and review of all key legal documents, including contracts, agreements and partnerships.

- Provide legal guidance on structuring business transactions, mergers, acquisitions and other strategic corporate dealings.

Dispute Resolution & Litigation Management:

- Lead the strategy for managing disputes, litigation, arbitration and other conflict resolution processes.

- Represent the company in legal proceedings, ensuring the best possible outcomes while minimizing risk and exposure.

- Coordinate with external counsel, as required, to handle high-profile disputes or specialized legal issues.

Risk Management:

- Identify and assess potential legal and operational risks, advising on mitigation strategies to minimize exposure.

- Develop and implement proactive legal risk management strategies to safeguard the company's assets and reputation.

Corporate Finance & Investment Legal Affairs:

- Provide legal counsel on financial transactions, capital raising and investment strategies, ensuring compliance with both internal policies and regulatory frameworks.

- Manage the legal aspects of corporate finance, including funding arrangements, joint ventures and strategic alliances.

Stakeholder Management & Communication:

- Develop and maintain strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, including regulators, external counsel and industry associations.

- Represent the company at relevant industry forums, ensuring effective communication of the company's legal and regulatory positions.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

- LLB from a reputable institution.

- A postgraduate degree in law or MBA with a legal focus is highly preferred.

- Membership with the Bar Council of India or equivalent legal authority.

Experience:

- At least 15-23 years of legal experience, with a minimum of 8 years in a senior leadership or management role.

- In-depth knowledge of corporate governance, regulatory compliance and industry-specific legal requirements.

- Strong background in handling complex legal matters, including litigation, contracts and corporate transactions.

Skills & Competencies:

- Expertise in corporate governance, risk management and legal compliance within a regulated industry.

- Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage a team of legal professionals and provide strategic direction.

- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex legal concepts for non-legal stakeholders.

- Strong negotiation skills and the ability to manage high-stakes business deals and disputes.