Legal Counsel

Tokenize Xchange; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 180,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the crypto and fintech sector is seeking a seasoned Legal Counsel to oversee legal and compliance functions. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in regulatory licensing and corporate governance, particularly within the digital assets space. This role involves liaising with regulators, advising on legal implications of strategic decisions, and ensuring compliance with global regulations. The position is based in Abu Dhabi and offers a unique opportunity to shape the legal framework of a growing company in a dynamic industry.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of legal experience in fintech or financial services.
• Qualified to practice in a common law jurisdiction.

Responsibilities

• Lead ADGM crypto asset license application and compliance.
• Provide legal counsel on corporate and regulatory matters.
• Draft and negotiate contracts, ensuring compliance with laws.

Skills

Negotiation

Communication

Judgment

Education

Law degree

Job description

Purpose

We are looking for a seasoned Legal Counsel with 5+ years of experience to lead our legal and compliance functions. This individual will play a pivotal role in ensuring compliance and supporting our strategic initiatives across jurisdictions.

Main Roles and Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the full lifecycle of ADGM crypto asset license application and ongoing compliance.
• Act as the company's primary liaison with ADGM/FSRA and other regional regulators.
• Stay abreast of regulatory developments across the UAE, Southeast Asia, and other priority markets.
• Provide high-level legal counsel to the executive team on complex corporate, commercial, and regulatory matters.
• Advise on the legal implications of strategic decisions, especially in the context of digital assets and fintech.
• Oversee corporate governance frameworks and provide legal input on organizational policies and risk mitigation.
• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts including vendor agreements, strategic partnerships, and NDAs.
• Ensure contracts reflect business objectives, minimize risk, and comply with applicable laws.
• Conduct legal due diligence for cross-border activities, M&A, and joint ventures.
• Develop and implement legal policies and risk frameworks to support sustainable business growth.
• Monitor global compliance requirements, particularly in anti-money laundering, consumer protection, and digital asset regulation.
• Represent the company in legal disputes, regulatory engagements, and external legal proceedings as required.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with regulatory bodies and external legal counsel.
• Guide and align external legal support with internal strategy and operations.
• Provide legal insights to support global expansion and strategic initiatives.

Qualifications

• Law degree and qualified to practice in a common law jurisdiction (UK, Singapore, Australia, etc.).
• Minimum 68 years of legal experience, with a strong focus on fintech, crypto, or financial services.
• Demonstrated experience in regulatory licensing, preferably with ADGM/FSRA or similar authorities.
• Strong understanding of international legal and regulatory frameworks affecting digital assets.
• Excellent judgment, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Abu Dhabi.

We regret to inform that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.