Legal Counsel – Japan
Overview
The company is seeking an experienced Legal Counsel to provide expert legal guidance and oversight for its expanding operations in Japan. This role supports multiple business functions, ensuring compliance with Japanese laws and alignment with broader regional and global strategies. Prior experience in the F&B, retail, or franchise sectors will be highly valued.
Key Responsibilities
Legal Advisory
Act as the primary legal contact for Japan, providing advice on corporate, commercial, compliance, employment, and intellectual property matters.
Partner with business leaders to anticipate legal risks and propose practical, business-oriented solutions.
Contract Management
Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of agreements in both Japanese and English, including vendor, franchise, lease, and employment contracts.
Ensure contractual terms are compliant, accurate, and aligned with corporate policies.
Regulatory Compliance
Ensure full adherence to Japanese laws and regulations such as the Commercial Code, Food Sanitation Act, Act on Specified Commercial Transactions, and Labour Standards Act.
Monitor changes in legislation and advise relevant teams on necessary adjustments.
Corporate Governance
Support board meetings, resolutions, and statutory filings in accordance with Japanese legal requirements.
Maintain accurate and compliant corporate records.
Employment Law
Advise the HR team on labor law matters, employee relations, dispute resolution, and workplace policies.
Franchise and Retail Law
Provide guidance on legal and regulatory matters related to franchise operations and retail expansion across Japan.
Intellectual Property Management
Oversee the registration, maintenance, and enforcement of trademarks and other IP rights in Japan.
Coordinate with external IP firms as needed.
Dispute Resolution
Manage disputes, including negotiations, mediations, litigation, and arbitration, while minimizing business disruption.
Government and Regulatory Relations
Liaise with Japanese government agencies and regulatory authorities to ensure proactive compliance and maintain strong relationships.
Risk and Compliance Management
Identify potential legal and compliance risks, and develop internal policies and training to mitigate them.
Qualifications and Skills
Bachelor’s degree in Law from a recognized Japanese university or equivalent international institution.
Licensed attorney in Japan (Bengoshi) or extensive experience in Japan’s corporate legal environment.
Minimum of 6–8 years of experience in a law firm or in-house legal department.
Fluent in both Japanese and English (written and verbal); proficiency in Mandarin is an advantage.
Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
Self-driven, adaptable, and pragmatic with the ability to balance legal precision and business needs.
Knowledge of franchise, retail, or consumer goods industries preferred.