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Legal Counsel

  • Full-time
  • legal
  • Botswana

Description


Express Credit is a leading consumer finance company operating in Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, and South Africa (under the Bongo Credit brand). We provide responsible short- and long-term financial solutions that empower individuals and contribute to the growth and wellbeing of the communities we serve.


Since 2017, ExpressCredit has more than tripled its global operations and grown to over 70 employees in Botswana and 1000 employees worldwide. We have our footprints across Botswana with 16 branches in Gaborone Main Mall, Gaborone Station, Gaborone Railpark, Pilane, Maun, Palapye, Mahalapye, Jwaneng, Lobatse, Kanye, Molepolole, Letlhakane, Selibe-Phikwe, Serowe and Francistown. If you want to work for a dynamic, forward-thinking and socially responsible financial services provider we are the right match for you! 


To learn more about Express Credit;


visit: https://www.expresscredit.co.bw/


PERSONAL DATA PROTECTION – By applying for this position you agree and consent that ExpressCredit shall process the personal data in your to evaluate your candidacy for this position. More details about the processing of your personal data during the recruitment process is available in our Recruitment Privacy Notice available at https://www.expresscredit.co.bw/page/recruitment-privacy-policy


Express Credit - one team with one dream to bring an added value to all our clients in Africa! 


Key Responsibilities

 • Do all things pertaining to any and all required legal services, including but not limited to ensuring the Company is compliant in respect of all financial services laws including but not limited to NBFIRA Act, FIA Act, Data Protection Act and any other financial services law which the Company is expected to comply with

 • Serve as a trusted legal advisor to the Chief Executive Officer, Executive Management Team, and Board of Directors, providing commercially pragmatic legal guidance that supports the achievement of the Company's strategic objectives while appropriately managing legal risk.

• Advise the Board of Directors and senior management on legal, governance, regulatory, and corporate matters, ensuring sound corporate governance and effective legal oversight.

• Monitor and advise on the legal implications of strategic initiatives, ensuring alignment with the Board-approved risk appetite framework, corporate governance principles, and applicable legal and regulatory requirements.

• Develop and maintain trusted relationships with the Chief Executive Officer, Executive Leadership Team, Board of Directors, regulators, and external legal advisors.

• Provide independent legal advice on enterprise-wide legal, regulatory, governance, reputational, and strategic risks, ensuring appropriate escalation of material legal issues.

• Lead the Legal function and oversee the Company's legal strategy, including corporate governance, commercial contracts, litigation management, employment law, intellectual property, regulatory matters, and legal support for business operations.

• Provide legal oversight and guidance regarding the Company's compliance and risk management frameworks, ensuring that governance structures remain legally robust and fit for purpose, while preserving the independence of second-line Compliance and Risk functions.

• Advise management on the interpretation and application of applicable laws, regulations, and regulatory developments affecting the Company's operations and strategic objectives.

• Review, draft, negotiate, and oversee material commercial agreements, strategic partnerships, financing arrangements, procurement contracts, and other legal documentation to appropriately protect the Company's interests.

• Support the development, review, and implementation of corporate policies, governance documents, and legal standards to ensure alignment with applicable laws, regulatory expectations, and industry best practices.

• Provide legal advice in relation to Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Counter-Terrorist Financing (CTF), sanctions, privacy, consumer protection, and other regulatory obligations, while supporting Compliance in the interpretation of applicable legal requirements.

• Advise on significant regulatory investigations, litigation, disputes, enforcement matters, and interactions with regulators, coordinating external legal counsel where appropriate.

• Identify emerging legal and regulatory developments, assess their impact on the business, and provide practical recommendations to senior management and the Board.

• Support the Risk and Compliance functions by providing legal interpretation, advice, and challenge on legal and regulatory matters.

• Promote a culture of legal awareness, ethical conduct, sound corporate governance, and responsible decision-making through legal education, guidance, and stakeholder engagement.

• Build strong partnerships with business leaders to facilitate commercially sound decisions that appropriately balance growth opportunities with legal and regulatory considerations.

• Lead, mentor, and develop members of the Legal function, fostering a collaborative, high-performing, and service-oriented team.

• Promote collaboration across Legal, Risk, Compliance, Internal Audit, and business functions to ensure effective governance while maintaining clear accountability.

• Act as Company Secretary (where applicable), ensuring compliance with corporate governance requirements, Board administration, statutory filings, and maintenance of corporate records.

• Uphold and promote the Company's Mission, Vision, Values, and ethical standards, serving as a role model for integrity, professionalism, and accountability.

• Perform such other legal, governance, and strategic advisory responsibilities as may reasonably be required from time to time.


Requirements

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from a recognized institution.

• Admission as a Legal Practitioner in Botswana will be an advantage.

• Minimum of 2 years' experience in a legal, corporate, or regulated financial services environment.

• Sound knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards.

• Strong commercial awareness with a proactive, business-partnering approach.

• High level of integrity and ability to maintain strict confidentiality.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

• Valid Class B Driver's Licence.

• A tertiary qualification in Risk Management, Corporate Governance, Compliance, or a related field will be an added advantage.


What we offer

• A dynamic, collaborative, and purpose-driven work environment.

• Opportunities for professional growth and career development within a regional group.

• A competitive remuneration package commensurate with your skills, experience, and responsibilities.

• Supportive leadership and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the business.

• A culture built on integrity, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

• Exposure to cross-border operations and the opportunity to work with diverse teams across the Group.

• Comprehensive employee benefits in line with company policy, including learning and development opportunities.

• Medical aid.

• Additional annual leave days.