Head of Legal

Head of Legal

Location: Dubai, UAE (full-time, on-site)

About the Company

My client is a proprietary trading firm specializing in High-Frequency Trading (HFT). Leveraging cutting-edge infrastructure and low-latency algorithms, the firm executes trades across global cryptocurrency and traditional exchanges — often within microseconds. They are already active on all major crypto platforms and selected APAC-region exchanges, steadily growing their PnL. To accelerate further expansion, they are building out scalable internal operations and entering new markets.

Overview

We are seeking a senior legal professional to lead the legal function of a fast-paced proprietary trading group of companies operating in complex, multi-jurisdictional environments. This is a key leadership role requiring a combination of hands-on legal expertise and strategic vision. The ideal candidate brings 15–20 years of legal experience, with at least 5–7 years in leadership roles, preferably in high-risk industries and tech-driven sectors such as FinTech, Investments, e-Payment Services, Crypto, FOREX, and others.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the firm's legal lead, ensuring compliance, legal integrity, and effective risk mitigation across jurisdictions.
  

• Advise the CEO and executive team on matters related to Corporate Law, IP Law, Labor Law, Tax Law, Contract Law, regulatory compliance, and cross-border structuring.
  

• Lead and scale the in-house legal team; manage and coordinate external counsel across multiple regions.
  

• Oversee contract negotiation and drafting with exchanges, brokers, and strategic partners.
  

• Participate in regulatory engagement and manage legal aspects of IP licensing and international operations.
  

• Drive the development and implementation of internal legal policies, compliance protocols, and crisis response strategies.
  

• Represent the company in legal proceedings and regulatory interactions, where necessary.
  

Requirements

• Legal Background: Law degree from a recognized institution; admitted to practice in a major common law jurisdiction.
  

• Experience: 15 -  20 years in total, including 12+ years leading legal teams. Strong background in IP, employment law, corporate and commercial law is essential.
  

• Regulatory Knowledge: Solid understanding of antitrust regulation and experience handling legal matters in regulated industries.
  

• Litigation Experience: Demonstrated experience in litigation and dispute resolution across multiple jurisdictions, covering a broad range of legal issues.
  

• Jurisdictional Insight: Experience in UAE and/or Free Zone frameworks is a strong plus.
  

• Cultural Fit: While the working language is English, cultural affinity with Russian-speaking leadership is important for internal alignment.
  

• Leadership: Proven ability to lead teams, advise C-level executives, and operate with a high degree of autonomy.
  

• Location & Availability: Full-time presence in Dubai required. Relocation support provided.
  

Benefits

• Competitive monthly package based on profile and experience
  

• Full relocation support including visa sponsorship, housing assistance, and family support
  

• Comprehensive health insurance (including dental), meals, wellness benefits, and office perks
  

• Fixed bonus and potential for performance-based incentives over time