Senior Legal Counsel - Lead Japan Banking Legal Strategy
About the job
Join a fast-growing global fintech platform that offers integrated financial services across payments, banking, trading, and digital assets. As a Senior Legal Counsel, you'll play a pivotal role in advising on financial, banking, and regulatory matters while supporting the company's Japan market expansion and upcoming banking license project. This position offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic international environment at the intersection of law, innovation, and finance.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide legal and regulatory advice in line with Japan's financial and banking laws.
- Support the banking license application process, including regulatory documentation and submissions.
- Draft, review, and negotiate commercial, outsourcing, and partnership agreements.
- Collaborate with Compliance, Product, and Financial Crime (FinCrime) teams on cross-border initiatives.
- Advise on data protection and privacy matters under APPI and related legislation.
- Liaise with regulators, external counsel, and industry associations.
- Monitor new financial regulations and implement frameworks to mitigate legal risks.
Required Skills and Qualifications
Legal Qualification:
- Japan-qualified lawyer (Bengoshi) or common-law-qualified attorney.
Experience:
- Minimum 3 years of experience in financial institutions, fintech, or banking.
Knowledge:
- Strong understanding of Japan FSA regulations, the Payment Services Act, and data protection (APPI).
Language Requirements:
- Japanese: Fluent (legal drafting and regulator communication).
- English: Business level (for internal coordination and cross-border matters).
Soft Skills:
- Excellent bilingual communication and drafting skills.
- Independent, hands-on working style with strong business acumen.
- Ability to balance legal precision with commercial objectives.
Preferred Skills & Qualifications
- Experience in fintech or technology sectors.
- Familiarity with AML/CFT frameworks and licensing projects.
- Experience in multinational or high-growth companies.
About the Company
Our client is a global fintech leader expanding rapidly across Asia-Pacific. The company provides cutting-edge digital financial services spanning banking, payments, trading, and asset management. With a strong focus on regulatory excellence and innovation, the firm is now preparing for its Japan banking license, marking a key milestone in its long-term growth strategy.
Why You'll Love Working Here
- Direct involvement in a high-impact banking license project shaping Japan's fintech future.
- International, diverse, and performance-driven culture that values innovation and collaboration.
- Hybrid work model (3-4 days WFH) offering flexibility and balance.
- Exposure to commercial and regulatory work at both domestic and global levels.
- Opportunity to build the legal foundation for a new banking operation in Japan.
Don't Miss Out - Apply Now!
