Job description
- Leading life insurer
- Strategic senior legal leadership role
- High‑visibility position with board and C‑suite exposure
Responsibilities
- Act as the principal in‑house legal advisor to the life insurance business, providing strategic, commercially attuned legal counsel to senior management and product, distribution and operations teams.
- Lead the review, drafting and negotiation of complex commercial contracts, including bancassurance and other distribution arrangements, agency agreements, outsourcing contracts and reinsurance treaties.
- Oversee legal input into product design, policy wording, marketing materials and customer documentation to ensure full compliance with applicable laws, regulations and internal governance standards.
- Advise on and manage regulatory interactions with the Insurance Authority and other relevant regulators, including supervisory enquiries, thematic reviews, licensing and regulatory change initiatives.
- Take ownership of contentious matters, including disputed claims, customer complaints, litigation and regulatory investigations, working closely with external counsel where appropriate.
- Develop and maintain legal policies, templates and playbooks that support efficient, consistent and high‑quality legal delivery across the organisation.
- Provide legal support to corporate transactions, strategic partnerships, digital and insurtech initiatives, and cross‑border projects impacting the life business.
- Prepare high‑quality legal opinions, board papers and briefing notes for senior stakeholders, articulating legal risks and options in a clear and concise manner.
- Mentor and guide junior legal team members, fostering a culture of professionalism, accountability and continuous improvement within the legal function.
- Bachelor’s degree or above in Law, with admission as a solicitor or barrister in Hong Kong or another common law jurisdiction.
- At least 12 years’ post‑qualification experience gained in leading law firms and/or reputable financial institutions, with substantial exposure to life insurance or broader insurance regulatory work.
- Sound knowledge of Hong Kong insurance law and regulation, including product, distribution and conduct requirements applicable to life insurers.
- Demonstrated experience managing complex commercial contracts, regulatory matters and contentious issues in a highly regulated environment.
- Strong commercial acumen, analytical capability and the ability to exercise independent judgement under pressure.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with fluency in English; proficiency in Chinese (Cantonese and/or Mandarin) will be a distinct advantage.
- Proven track record in leading or coaching legal professionals and influencing senior stakeholders across business and control functions.
