A growing international financial services organisation is seeking an experienced and commercially focused Head of Legal to lead its legal function in Ireland. The business provides fund administration, management company and platform services to asset managers and is continuing to expand its presence in the Irish market.
Based in the city centre in an organisation with a hybrid working model, this is a hands-on leadership role suited to a senior legal professional who enjoys combining strategic input with day-to-day legal delivery. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting growth, strengthening regulatory engagement and enhancing governance frameworks, with the opportunity to build and develop the legal capability over time.
Key Responsibilities
Legal Advisory & Fund Lifecycle
- Lead the legal review and approval of fund documentation for UCITS and AIF structures, including prospectuses, supplements and investor documentation.
- Provide legal guidance on fund launches, restructures and product changes.
- Draft, review and negotiate a range of commercial agreements, including:
- Management and investment management agreements
- Distribution and administration agreements
- Depositary and other service provider contracts
Regulatory & External Engagement
- Act as a key legal contact with the Central Bank of Ireland and other relevant regulators.
- Provide guidance on regulatory developments and their impact on the business.
- Manage relationships with external legal advisers to ensure effective and commercially focused support.
Governance & Board Support
- Advise on corporate governance arrangements and regulatory requirements.
- Support board and committee processes, including attendance at meetings and legal input into key decisions.
- Work closely with Company Secretarial and governance stakeholders to maintain effective oversight.
Commercial & Operational Support
- Partner with operations, compliance and business development teams on strategic initiatives and new fund launches.
- Support cross-border registrations and UCITS passporting activities.
- Provide legal input to client onboarding and commercial arrangements while balancing risk and growth objectives.
Leadership & Development
- Establish and develop the legal function in Ireland.
- Mentor future legal team members as the business grows.
- Contribute to wider group legal initiatives and best practice sharing.
Risk & Compliance
- Maintain and enhance legal and governance frameworks.
- Support reporting to senior management and boards.
- Promote a strong culture of accountability and risk awareness.
About You
You will be a qualified lawyer in Ireland, the UK or another recognised jurisdiction with significant experience within investment funds or asset management.
You will bring:
- Strong knowledge of UCITS and AIF structures.
- Experience working with the Irish regulatory environment and the Central Bank of Ireland.
- A track record of engaging with regulators and external counsel.
- Experience operating in a growing or entrepreneurial environment.
- Excellent commercial judgement and stakeholder management skills.
- A proactive, hands-on approach and the ability to work independently.
- High levels of integrity, accountability and ownership.
