The Legal Counsel provides expert legal support and manages litigation demands, risk, and compliance functions to ensure the organization operates within legal and regulatory frameworks. The Legal Counsel plays a crucial role in mitigating legal risks and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations. This role requires a high-level of confidentiality on matters and information being handled by the Legal Team.
Key Responsibilities
1. Litigation Management
- Handle all litigation matters involving the organization.
- Represent the organization in court, arbitration, and other legal proceedings.
- Develop and implement litigation strategies to protect the organization's interests.
- Coordinate with external legal counsel when necessary.
- Maintain comprehensive records of all litigation cases and outcomes.
2. Investigation and Reporting on AML Obligations
- Investigate and respond to requests for Anti-money Laundering (AML) and Beneficial Ownership (BO) information from supervisors and law enforcement agencies.
- Assist with the application of sanctions for failure to comply with AML obligations.
- Reporting on AML actions.
3. Risk Management
- Identify and assess potential legal risks associated with the organization's operations.
- Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies.
- Provide legal advice on risk management issues to senior management and other departments.
- Conduct regular risk assessments and audits to ensure compliance with legal standards.
4. Compliance Functions
- Develop, implement, and oversee the organization's compliance programmes.
- Ensure adherence to all relevant laws, regulations, and internal policies.
- Conduct compliance training for employees and management.
- Monitor and report on compliance issues, ensuring timely resolution.
- Prepare and submit compliance reports to regulatory authorities as required.
5. Legal Advisory
- Provide legal advice and support to various departments within the organization.
- Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, agreements, and other legal documents.
- Ensure that all legal documentation is accurate, up-to-date, and compliant with relevant laws.
- Advise on legal implications of business strategies and decisions.
6. Policy and Procedure Development
- Assist in developing and updating organizational policies and procedures to ensure legal compliance.
- Review and revise existing policies to reflect changes in laws and regulations.
- Ensure that policies and procedures are effectively communicated and implemented across the organization.
7. Governance
- Develop and implement governance frameworks that support the organization's strategic objectives.
- Advise on best practices in corporate governance and ensure adherence to governance standards.
- Conduct regular reviews of governance practices and recommend improvements.
8. Stakeholder Engagement
- Liaise with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders on legal and compliance matters.
- Build and maintain relationships with external legal advisors, consultants, and other key stakeholders.
9. Other Duties
- Perform any other job-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Law (LLB) from a recognized institution.
- Admission to practice law in Barbados.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in legal practice, with a focus on litigation, risk management, and compliance.
- Extensive knowledge of Barbadian business law, regulatory frameworks, and compliance requirements.
- Experience working with Anti-money Laundering (AML) and Beneficial Ownership (BO).
Skills and Competencies
- Strong litigation and advocacy skills.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
- High level of integrity and professional ethics.
- Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
- Proficiency in legal research and legal drafting.
Key Attributes
- Strategic thinker with a proactive approach.
- Detail-oriented and highly organized.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with stakeholders.
- Commitment to continuous professional development and staying updated with legal trends and changes.
Working Conditions
- This position operates primarily in an office environment, with occasional travel for client meetings, court appearances or presentations.
- Flexibility in working hours may be required to accommodate client needs or deadlines.
