Legal counsel - regional bank

A reputable regional bank is seeking an experienced Senior Legal Counsel to be the principal legal advisor for its Hong Kong branch. The role will provide hands‑on legal support across commercial, litigation and regulatory matters, and will work closely with Head Office and overseas branches to ensure consistent, bank‑wide legal standards.

Key responsibilities:

• Act as a key legal advisor to the Branch, identifying and managing legal risk across business lines
• Oversee and coordinate all litigation and dispute matters, including instructing and managing external counsel to protect the Bank’s interests and reputation
• Lead drafting, negotiation and review of commercial contracts, ensuring clear, commercially viable and legally sound documentation
• Develop and deliver legal training sessions and guidance to business and support teams
• Act as the principal liaison with Head Office legal and other regional legal teams to harmonise local practices with group policies and standards
• Work closely with Compliance to evaluate legal implications of regulatory and compliance issues and provide pragmatic legal solutions

Key requirements:

• Hong Kong qualified lawyer with at least 8-10 years of PQE
• Prior experience in the banking or finance industry or knowledge in banking is highly preferred
• Knowledge of ISDA documentation is a huge advantage
• Experience and knowledge in commercial litigation is essential
• Possess excellent contract drafting and interpretation skills
• Excellent command of written and spoken English and Chinese (Proficiency in Mandarin is a significant advantage)