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Senior Legal Counsel I - Japan

Japan, Tokyo · Job Posted May 04, 2026
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Job Description

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Japanese lawyer (can be qualified in Japan or common law country with Japan law experience) to join our legal team. The ideal candidate will bring 10-13 years of post-qualification experience across corporate and commercial law, labor and employment, regulatory compliance, contract negotiation, procurement, and sales transactions. This role demands a high level of energy, commitment, and adaptability in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment. As sole counsel for Japan and supporting strategic projects throughout the rest of the North Pacific, Southeast Asia environment, this person needs to be confident, an outstanding communicator and have executive presence engaging directly with management in-country.

Job Responsibility

  • Be an integral member of the legal and compliance team
  • Provide strategic legal advice and support on corporate, commercial, and regulatory matters across Japan and APAC operations
  • Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of contracts including facility leases, construction, IT procurement, sales, partnership, and licensing agreements
  • Advise on labor and employment issues, including employee relations, policies, and dispute resolution
  • Ensure compliance with Japanese laws and regulations, and support internal governance initiatives
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including marketing, operations, government affairs, sales and HR
  • Support M&A, joint ventures, and other strategic transactions as needed
  • Liaise with external counsel and regulatory authorities when required

Requirements

  • Qualified to practice law in Japan or common law jurisdiction but with Japanese law experience
  • 10-13 years of relevant legal experience, ideally in both law firm and in-house environments
  • Strong understanding of Japanese corporate, commercial, labor, and regulatory frameworks
  • Excellent drafting and negotiation skills in both Japanese and English
  • Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality work under pressure
  • A proactive team player with strong interpersonal and communication skills
  • High level of integrity, professionalism, and business acumen
  • Fluent in Japanese and English

Nice to have

  • Experience working in multinational or cross-border settings
  • Familiarity with regional legal landscapes in Asia
  • Passion for innovation and continuous improvement

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