Reports to: MD/CEO JOB SUMMARY The Secretary/Legal Adviser will provide legal guidance and corporate governance expertise, ensuring that the organization complies with regulatory requirements and operates within legal frameworks. The role is pivotal in supporting the Board of Directors and senior management on corporate governance matters, maintaining statutory records, and managing company contracts, intellectual property, and risk management. This role will also serve as a trusted adviser to safeguard the company’s legal interests and mitigate risks. JOB RESPONSIBILIES 1. Corporate Governance and Compliance
Serve as the primary adviser on corporate governance practices, ensuring compliance with regulatory and legal requirements.
Oversee board meetings, including preparing meeting agendas, minutes, resolutions, and documentation.
Ensure timely filing of statutory returns, annual reports, and other required documents with regulatory bodies.
2. Legal Advisory and Risk Management
Provide strategic legal advice on contracts, partnerships, acquisitions, and regulatory issues to senior management and the Board.
Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, agreements, and policies to protect the company’s interests.
Identify potential legal risks and establish policies to mitigate these risks across business processes.
3. Contract Management
Develop and implement a contract management framework that ensures efficiency, compliance, and timely review of key contracts.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to review, approve, and monitor contractual obligations and deliverables.
Maintain a central database for all company contracts, enabling efficient tracking and reporting.
4. Intellectual Property and Data Protection
Manage and protect the company’s intellectual property assets, including trademarks, patents, copyrights, and trade secrets.
Ensure adherence to data protection laws, maintaining company-wide awareness and compliance.
5. Liaison and Relationship Management
Act as the primary liaison between the company, external legal counsel, regulatory authorities, and other stakeholders.
Build strong relationships with external legal advisers to manage complex legal matters and drive favourable outcomes.
6. Policy Development and Review •Oversee the development, implementation, and review of internal policies, ensuring alignment with applicable legal and regulatory frameworks.
Provide legal support for company initiatives, including expansion, restructuring, and new business ventures.
7. Board Support and Documentation
Support the CEO and Board in arranging Board meetings, preparing documentation, and ensuring accurate recording of Board resolutions.
Monitor board decisions and ensure timely action, reporting progress to the Board and senior management.
PERFORMANCE METRICS
Compliance accuracy and timeliness in regulatory filings and board documentation.
Risk mitigation effectiveness and reduction in legal disputes.
Efficiency in contract management and completion timelines.
Stakeholder satisfaction and effectiveness of legal advisory support.
Key Skills & Competencies
In-depth knowledge of corporate governance and regulatory requirements.
Strong legal acumen with proven expertise in contract negotiation and intellectual property management.
Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to prioritize tasks and work in a fast-paced environment.
Strong ethical standards, integrity, and discretion in handling confidential information.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS • Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB); or additional qualifications (such as ICSA) is an advantage.
Licensed to practice law and in good standing with relevant legal authorities.
Minimum of 8 years of experience in corporate law, governance, or as a company secretary, preferably within technology sector.