Director of Legal Affairs

Talents Tide; Dubai; On-site; AED 300,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial entity in the UAE is seeking a highly experienced Director of Legal Affairs. This role involves providing legal counsel to the Department of Finance, ensuring compliance with laws, managing contracts, and mitigating risks. The successful candidate will have a Master's degree in Law, preferably with a focus on international law or financial services. This leadership position requires overseeing a legal team and coordinating with various government bodies. A strong commitment to governance and policy development is essential.

Qualifications

• Advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in Law, with specialization in international law or financial services law preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality legal services to the Department of Finance.
• Analyze and draft legislation impacting the department.
• Manage contracts and agreements for the department.
• Identify and mitigate potential legal risks.
• Support governance and policy alignment initiatives.
• Lead and manage the legal team effectively.
• Coordinate with government bodies and external counsel.

Education

Master's degree in Law

Job description

The role of the Director of the Legal Affairs within a Finance Entity involves a blend of high-level legal counsel and strategic financial oversight. The Director manages all legal matters for the department, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations while protecting the government's financial interests.

Core Duties and Responsibilities

• Legal Counsel and Representation: Provide timely, high-quality legal services and advice to the Department of Finance and related government entities on a wide array of complex issues, including financial, budgetary, and policy matters. The director may represent the government in disputes, litigation, and arbitration proceedings.
• Legislation and Compliance: Analyze and advise on existing and proposed legislation that may impact the Department of Finance. This includes drafting new laws and rules related to financial services and ensuring all internal operations align with the applicable legal framework.
• Contract Management: Oversee the drafting, reviewing, and negotiation of contracts, agreements, and Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) to which the government or its entities are parties, ensuring the best interests are protected.
• Risk Mitigation: Identify and alert senior management to potential legal risks and liabilities affecting the department, developing and implementing strategies to mitigate them.
• Governance and Policy: Support senior management in ensuring good governance and full alignment with the organization's legal framework. Contribute to policy projects and the development of sound legal standards and practices.
• Departmental Management: Lead, manage, and coordinate the legal team, including professional development, performance reviews, and budget management. Foster a cohesive, high-performing, and ethical work environment.
• Liaison and Coordination: Act as the primary point of contact and maintain a network of relationships with other government bodies, national authorities, and external legal counsel.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• Education: An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in Law, with a specialization often preferred in international law or financial services law