Senior Legal Counsel (New Markets)

About the role

Wave is building the first cashless continent in Africa and needs a senior legal professional to guide its expansion into the Democratic Republic of Congo and other new markets. As Senior Legal Counsel you will be the primary legal advisor, ensuring that growth initiatives comply with local regulations and protect the company’s commercial interests.

Key responsibilities

• Draft, negotiate and manage contracts for core products and services, including agents, payments and procurement.
• Implement and improve contracting processes, including policy development, contract management software, electronic signature tools and archiving across multiple countries.
• Develop and apply group legal policies, such as data‑privacy and contracts policies, and propose updates based on legal developments.
• Manage litigation procedures, including pre‑action case handling, mediation, arbitration and court proceedings.
• Provide legal support for employment matters, disciplinary actions and terminations.
• Oversee company secretarial duties for all legal entities.
• Collaborate with Risk and Controls teams to mitigate legal risks.
• Lead data‑privacy and consumer‑protection compliance strategies in partnership with other functions.

Required profile

• Extensive experience as a legal counsel, preferably in fintech or financial services.
• Proven track record in high‑value contract negotiation and drafting.
• Strong knowledge of regulatory environments in emerging markets, especially in Central Africa.
• Experience managing litigation, employment law issues and company secretarial responsibilities.
• Ability to work cross‑functionally with business, risk, and compliance teams.

Required skills

• Proficiency with contract management software.
• Experience using electronic signature platforms.