Senior Legal Officer

About the Client
Our client is a UK-based Electronic Money Institution specialising in card acquiring services. They enable businesses to accept card payments both online and in-store. With a strong emphasis on secure and efficient payment processing solutions, they cater to a diverse range of merchants.

Operating under strict regulatory standards ensures compliance and protection for businesses and their customers. Role Overview
The Senior Legal Officer/Head of Legal is responsible for providing comprehensive legal support to the company's operations. This includes ensuring regulatory compliance, managing legal aspects of acquiring and payment service provider business, and collaborating closely with various teams to implement internal policies and procedures.

Key Responsibilities

Provide full legal support for EMI operations, ensuring UK regulatory compliance and liaising with regulators

Draft and negotiate merchant agreements, processing agreements, and vendor contracts, including for high-risk clients

Participate in building and optimising corporate structure and governance across the group

Collaborate with Compliance, Risk, and Product teams to develop and implement internal policies and procedures

Support licensing processes and regulatory initiatives, including expansion into new jurisdictions and products

Advise business stakeholders on legal matters related to payments, e-money, and cross-border operations

Manage external legal counsel to ensure the quality and efficiency of deliverables

Requirements
5+ years of legal experience in fintech, payments, EMI, or PSP

Hands-on experience with UK (FCA) and/or EU regulatory frameworks (EMI, PSD2)

Strong understanding of payment flows, card acquiring, and high-risk verticals

Solid background in contract law and commercial deal structuring

Experience working closely with Compliance/AML functions and regulatory requirements

Key Soft Skills
Proactive mindset and strong ownership

Ability to work in a fast-paced, evolving environment

Strong communication skills with C-level and cross-functional teams

High attention to detail and risk-oriented thinking

Flexibility and adaptability

What We Offer
Competitive salary aligned with experience

Collaborative and transparent team culture

High-impact role in a scaling fintech company

Recognition of personal milestones and achievements

Social benefits