Job Description
The Senior Legal Counsel will serve as a strategic partner to Douro Labs, providing comprehensive legal guidance across all business operations. This role involves managing the entire lifecycle of contracts, from drafting and negotiation to execution, renewal, and termination. Key responsibilities include ensuring contractual agreements align with company objectives, industry standards, and regulatory requirements. The candidate will also support talent acquisition and HR initiatives by advising on employment-related legal matters, including compliance with labor laws and employee contracts. Additionally, the role requires maintaining proactive communication with internal stakeholders to address legal risks and provide timely counsel.
Key Responsibilities
- Review, negotiate, and finalize a wide range of contracts, including technology agreements, vendor contracts, and partnership terms, ensuring alignment with business goals and legal compliance.
- Develop and implement contract management strategies to mitigate risks, optimize obligations, and enhance operational efficiency through standardized processes.
- Oversee contract records and databases, including tracking renewals, renegotiations, and terminations, while improving review workflows for consistency and accuracy.
- Provide legal expertise on corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and operational matters to ensure Douro Labs adheres to applicable laws and industry regulations.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to address legal challenges in business operations, including data privacy, intellectual property, and compliance frameworks.
- Act as a liaison between Douro Labs and external legal counsel, such as Fenwick & West (U.S.), to coordinate legal matters and manage billing processes effectively.
- Monitor and analyze legal and regulatory developments in the cryptocurrency industry, providing actionable insights to safeguard the company's interests.
- Support internal legal initiatives, including policy development, risk assessments, and compliance training programs, as required by business needs.
Job Requirements
- JD: Juris Doctor degree or equivalent legal qualification from a recognized institution, with a focus on corporate law or technology-related legal fields.
- Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in legal counsel roles, preferably within the fintech or cryptocurrency industry, with a proven track record in contract management and compliance.
- Skills: Strong analytical and negotiation skills, with expertise in drafting legally binding agreements. Proficiency in legal research, risk assessment, and regulatory analysis is essential.
- Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with blockchain technology, smart contracts, and digital asset regulations. Understanding of international legal frameworks and cross-border compliance is advantageous.
- Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to articulate legal opinions clearly. Ability to collaborate with both technical teams and external legal partners is required.
- Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in contract drafting, review, and management. Strong organizational skills to handle multiple legal tasks simultaneously.
- Adaptability: Willingness to stay updated on rapidly evolving legal landscapes in the crypto industry. Flexibility to adapt to changing business needs and regulatory environments.
- Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead legal initiatives, mentor junior legal staff, and provide strategic guidance to senior management on legal matters.
Additional Qualifications
- Preferred: Experience with regulatory compliance in jurisdictions such as the United States, EU, or other regions with stringent crypto regulations.
- Language Skills: Proficiency in English and at least one additional language (e.g., Mandarin, Spanish) to facilitate communication with global stakeholders.
- Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with legal technology tools and software for contract management, document automation, and compliance tracking.
- Industry Knowledge: Deep understanding of the cryptocurrency ecosystem, including DeFi, NFTs, and blockchain-based business models.
- Professional Certifications: Relevant legal certifications (e.g., CLE, CLM) or memberships in legal associations would be a plus.
