Head, Legal Services at Unified Payment Services Limited | Nigeria

Job Description

Connect With Us

Unified Payment Services Limited (UP®), Nigeria’s leading Payments & Financial Technology company, established in 1997 by a consortium of prominent Nigerian banks, is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Head, Legal Services. UP® plays a pivotal role in operating shared infrastructure for the Nigerian banking community and acts as a Payments Service Provider both domestically and internationally. With a vision to be the most preferred e-payment service provider in Africa, we are looking for an accomplished legal professional to lead our legal department and ensure robust compliance and strategic legal guidance.

Job Overview

The Head, Legal Services will be responsible for overseeing all legal affairs of Unified Payment Services Limited, providing expert legal counsel, and ensuring compliance with all relevant Nigerian and international laws and regulations. This role is critical in safeguarding the company’s interests and supporting its strategic objectives within the dynamic fintech landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive legal strategies aligned with UP®’s business goals.
• Manage and oversee all legal aspects of corporate governance, contracts, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance.
• Advise senior management and the board of directors on legal matters, risk assessment, and mitigation.
• Lead and mentor the legal team, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Represent UP® in legal proceedings and negotiations.
• Stay abreast of evolving legal and regulatory frameworks impacting the payments and financial technology sector in Nigeria and beyond.

Requirements

• Law degree from a reputable institution and admission to the Nigerian Bar.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive legal experience, with a significant portion in corporate law and financial services.
• Demonstrated experience in a leadership or management role within a legal department.
• In-depth knowledge of Nigerian corporate, commercial, and financial regulations.
• Proven ability to manage complex legal matters and provide strategic legal advice.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to lead legal services for a pioneering fintech company in Africa.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment with significant growth potential.
• Exposure to cutting-edge payment technologies and industry trends.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Contribution to shaping the future of digital payments in Nigeria and across the continent.