Legal Counsel at Switchboard

Job Description

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.