At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal advice and support for Thunes' operations in Africa, focusing on compliance and contracting.
- Company: Join Thunes, a global leader in real-time payment solutions with a dynamic culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities to work across different time zones.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that shapes the future of global payments and compliance.
- Qualifications: Law degree, fluent in English and French, with 4+ years of legal experience.
The predicted salary is between 81000 - 99000 £ per year.
- Legal Counsel (French Speaking)
- About Thunes
Thunes is the Smart Superhighway to move money around the world.
Thunes' proprietary Direct Global Network allows Members to make payments in real-time in over 140 countries and more than 90 currencies.
Thunes' Network connects directly to over 12 billion mobile wallets, stablecoin wallets and bank accounts worldwide, as well as 15 billion cards via more than 220 different payment methods, such as GCash, M-Pesa, Airtel, MTN, Orange, Jazz Cash, Easypaisa, Ali Pay, We Chat Pay HK and many more.
Thunes' Direct Global Network differentiates itself through its worldwide reach, in-house Smart X Treasury System and Fortress Compliance Platform, ensuring Members of the Network receive unrivaled speed, control, visibility, protection, and cost efficiencies when making real-time payments, globally.
Members of Thunes' Direct Global Network include gig economy giants like Uber and Deliveroo, super-apps like Grab and We Chat, MTOs, fintechs, PSPs and banks.
Headquartered in Singapore, Thunes has offices in 15 locations, including Atlanta, Barcelona, Beijing, Dubai, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, London, Manila, Nairobi, New York, Paris, Riyadh, San Francisco and Shanghai.
For more information, visit: https://www. thunes. com.
Context of the role
As Legal Counsel - Africa, your focus will be supporting the Legal & Compliance function in building a world‑class legal and regulatory infrastructure for sustainable business performance into the future.
You will assist the Vice Presidents Legal, General Counsel and Chief Legal and Compliance Officer and the wider function in providing legal advice (primarily in English and French languages) to the business and central functions, advising on legal risks, providing legal advice and support with regard to all aspects of the group's activities but, principally, contracting with the group's network partners and customers in Africa for the group's regulated payment services.
You will be part of a team that ensures full compliance with legal and regulatory requirements; including all obligations relating to payment data and payment processing services as well as acquiring and maintaining all relevant licences to perform our business activities globally (incl. payment institution licences, money remittance licences, among others).
The successful candidate must be a highly motivated self‑starter with a proven ability to work in a fast‑paced environment, both independently and as a member of a team.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as integral member of Thunes' Legal team and liaise between other departments, anticipating their requirements.
- Provide pragmatic but always legally sound guidance and maintain a culture of excellence to cross‑functional stakeholders.
- Provide appropriate legal and contractual support for all business areas including commercial contracting, product development, payments, sales and marketing activities.
- Take responsibility for substantive legal issues as requested, including commercial, payments, privacy, product, intellectual property, regulatory, contentious and corporate.
- Work closely with the Legal & Compliance leadership in monitoring and responding to relevant statutory, regulatory and policy changes.
- Reinforce culture of compliance with all relevant rules and regulations, including formulation of and compliance with internal policies, rules and procedures and horizon scanning.
- Ensure the proper balance of internal and external legal resources and their effective allocation.
- Candidate Requirements
- Law qualification from a reputable institution; admitted as a solicitor/lawyer, ideally in Kenya, France or UK.
- Fluent spoken and written English and French.
- Demonstrable legal negotiation and drafting experience either from within a reputable law firm or similar in‑house role.
- Minimum of 4 years of post‑qualification legal experience.
- Broad legal experience including commercial, payments, product and intellectual property.
- Ability to "roll up your sleeves" and ensure effective operations; identify best practices in legal and apply to Thunes.
- Strong alignment with Thunes' culture and values and be comfortable in changing corporate environments.
- Committed to building a world‑class legal organisation that supports Thunes' efforts to achieve its goals.
- Willingness to travel (not frequently) and work across different time zones.
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Legal Counsel (French Speaking) | Witney, UK employer: Thunes
Thunes is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and development, offering a dynamic work culture where innovation and collaboration thrive. Located in a vibrant industry hub, employees benefit from competitive compensation, comprehensive training programs, and the opportunity to work alongside experts in data protection within the payments sector. Join us to make a meaningful impact while advancing your career in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel (French Speaking) | Witney, UK
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Thunes, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Counsel (French Speaking) | Witney, UK
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Thunes, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Thunes and the specific role of Legal Counsel (French Speaking) | Witney, UK. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Thunes’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thunes
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Thunes.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Thunes.
