Africa Senior Legal Counsel

Overview

A leading logistics and delivery technology organization is seeking a senior, strategic, and adaptable lawyer to lead and scale legal and compliance efforts across Africa. This role combines compliance execution, regulatory strategy, and public-sector partnership to support growth in complex regulatory environments.

This position is part of a lean, high-impact Legal Team and involves hands-on administration of U.S. government awards and global compliance programs in Africa.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and continuously improve legal and compliance programs across Africa to support rapid growth
• Manage compliance with U.S. government award requirements, including FARs and 2 CFR 200
• Serve as a primary contact for U.S. government contracting officers, including those at the U.S. Department of State
• Lead compliance workstreams covering sanctions, anti-bribery and anti-corruption, privacy, healthcare, employment, and product regulations
• Support internal investigations, audits, and risk assessments in partnership with People, Finance, and senior leadership
• Manage litigation and disputes within African markets
• Translate complex regulatory requirements into clear, actionable guidance for business and technical teams
• Collaborate with public affairs, policy, and operations teams to align legal, compliance, and government relations strategies
• Monitor regulatory and policy developments across African jurisdictions and advise leadership on risks and opportunities
• Help shape long-term legal and regulatory strategy balancing compliance rigor with innovation and speed
• Provide pragmatic, risk-calibrated legal advice to business leaders
• Foster a culture of compliance across teams
• Support commercial negotiation, contracting, and procurement processes

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree required
• Membership in good standing of at least one U.S. state or international bar
• 7–10 years of relevant legal experience, including experience at a reputable law firm and/or in-house
• Experience advising or engaging with government entities, regulators, or public-sector stakeholders, preferably in international or emerging-market contexts
• Strong judgment and ability to make independent decisions with appropriate escalation
• Ability to break down complex legal and regulatory issues into clear priorities and practical solutions
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including advising senior stakeholders
• Collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset with strong organizational skills
• Willingness to travel up to 25% to Africa, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in international compliance, government contracting, or regulated industries

Compensation & Benefits

Details regarding compensation and benefits will be provided during the hiring process.

Location

This role involves travel primarily to Africa, with occasional travel to San Francisco and Washington, D.C.