Job Description
We are looking for a skilled Legal Counsel to join CHAGEE country to provide legal guidance and oversight for our growing operations. This role supports cross-functional teams and ensures the business is run in accordance with local law while aligning with regional strategies. Prior experience in F&B, retail, or franchise operations will be highly advantageous.
Key Responsibilities:
Legal Advisory: Serve as the legal point of contact for all country business units, providing advice on corporate, commercial, compliance, employment, and IP matters.
Contract Management: Draft, review, and negotiate legal agreements in local language and English, including vendor agreements, franchising contracts, lease agreements, and employment contracts.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with Japanese Commercial Code, Food Sanitation Act, Act on Specified Commercial Transactions, Labour Standards Act, and other relevant regulations.
Corporate Secretarial: Support with corporate governance matters, board meetings, and filings in accordance with Japanese law.
Employment Law: Guide HR on local labour law compliance, employee disputes, contracts, and policies.
Franchise & Retail Law: Advise on regulatory and contractual issues related to franchise expansion in country.
IP & Trademark Protection: Oversee trademark registration and enforcement in country, working with local IP firms where necessary.
Dispute Management: Lead dispute resolution efforts including negotiation, mediation, litigation, or arbitration.
Government & Regulatory Liaison: Maintain relationships with Japanese regulatory bodies, ensuring proactive compliance.
Risk & Policy Management: Identify and advise on legal risks and support internal training on legal and compliance matters.
Qualifications:
Bachelor degree in law, from a recognized university or foreign equivalent
Licensed to practice law in local country or with in-depth legal experience in corporate legal environment
Minimum 6–8 years of relevant experience in-house or at a top-tier law firm
Fluent in local country and English (written and spoken); Mandarin a plus
Self-motivated, adaptable, and solution-oriented with strong communication skills
Familiarity with franchising, retail operations, or consumer goods a strong advantage