Legal Counsel - Japan

Responsibilities:

• Provide legal counsel and strategic support to the Japan businesses and affiliated entities.
• Advise Franchise leaders and leadership teams.
• Assess legal risks and develop mitigation policies, training, and communications.
• Guide leadership and business functions in compliant decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and industry codes.
• Support M&A, licensing, and business development, including due diligence and contract execution.
• Manage external legal counsel, budgets, and service guidelines.
• Oversee litigation, dispute resolution, and internal/external investigations.
• Provide legal guidance on corporate policies, compliance, and training programs.
• Support legal and risk management for shared business functions.
• Align with legal teams across sectors, regions, and global operations.
• Advise on regulatory, marketing, and corporate governance matters.

Key Skills & Competencies:

• Strong ethical judgment and business integrity.
• Adaptable, collaborative, and effective in dynamic environments.
• Skilled in engaging diverse business teams and executives.
• Experienced in matrix organizations and change management.
• Excellent communication and legal advisory skills for senior leadership.
• Proficient in multinational, cross-border legal matters.
• Proactive, results-driven, and accountable.
• Client-focused with practical, innovative legal solutions.
• Strong analytical, consultative, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Influential and strategic in stakeholder management.
• Committed to high ethical, legal, and compliance standards.
• Skilled in navigating ambiguity with clear legal guidance.

Qualifications:

• JD or LLB from a recognized Japanese university/law school.
• Japanese Bengoshi / 弁護士 qualification is required.
• Fluency in both written and spoken English and Japanese (native-level).
• Minimum of 8 years of post-qualification experience.
• Preferably has experience working in multinational corporations, particularly within the healthcare industry, though not mandatory.
• Strong corporate legal background, ideally with experience advising senior leaders.