Join a fast-growing fintech company leading innovation in B2B financial services. As a Senior Legal & Compliance Specialist, you will shape the company's governance structure, ensuring compliance with Japanese financial regulations and supporting its path toward IPO readiness. This is a hands-on leadership role that bridges law, business, and technology-perfect for a proactive legal professional eager to guide new fintech ventures from concept to launch.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and advise new fintech initiatives from inception to launch, interpreting complex financial regulations into practical business frameworks.
- Provide legal guidance on the Banking Act, Payment Services Act, and related financial laws.
- Draft, review, and negotiate commercial, partnership, and licensing contracts.
- Develop internal controls that align with IPO-readiness while maintaining operational flexibility.
- Partner with Business Development and Technology teams to enable compliant, innovation-driven product launches.
- Manage external counsel and ensure smooth cross-functional communication.
- Support potential overseas expansion and stakeholder engagement initiatives.
Required Skills and Qualifications
Experience:
- Minimum 3 years of legal experience, including at least 1 year in corporate or in-house legal roles.
- Demonstrated ability to draft and review contracts independently.
- Deep understanding of financial laws and regulatory frameworks.
Education & Certification:
- Japan-qualified lawyer (Bengoshi) is required.
- Bachelor's degree or higher in Law or a related discipline.
Soft Skills:
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to propose practical, business-oriented legal solutions.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset.
- Confidence to assert opinions clearly while maintaining collaborative relationships.
- Adaptable and proactive in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
Language Requirements:
- Japanese: Native (required for legal documentation and client engagement).
- English: Intermediate to Business level (for internal and cross-border communication).
Preferred Skills & Qualifications
- Experience in Banking, Payment Services, or AML/CFT compliance.
- Leadership experience in pre- or post-IPO legal teams.
- Business-level English proficiency.
About the Company
Our client is a rapidly expanding fintech company developing a global financial platform that empowers innovators through AI-driven corporate cards, invoice payment solutions, and a growth debt fund in collaboration with a major Japanese financial group. With over ¥60 billion in funding and a strategic alliance with a top-tier bank, the company combines deep financial expertise with cutting-edge technology to accelerate global innovation.
Why You'll Love Working Here
- Opportunity to build and launch new fintech ventures from the ground up.
- Clear career pathway toward a future Head of Legal position.
- Flexible hybrid work environment with a strong culture of collaboration.
- High-impact role in a pre-IPO company with global ambitions.
- Inclusive, English-speaking international environment.
Don't Miss Out - Apply Now!
