EBKL- Legal Officer, Litigation at Equity Bank

Equity Bank is one of the region’s leading banks whose purpose is to transform the lives and livelihoods of the people of Africa socially and economically by availing them modern and inclusive financial services that maximize their opportunities. With a strong footprint in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan and DRC Congo, Equity Bank is now home to over 12 million customers - the largest customer base in Africa. Currently the Bank is seeking additional talent to serve in the role of Legal Officer-Litigation at Officer level.

Job Purpose:

The Legal Officer - Litigation is responsible for assisting the Legal Manager - Litigation in managing the bank's litigation portfolio. The role involves handling legal disputes, preparing documentation, managing court filings, providing legal opinions, and supporting the resolution of contentious matters in a timely and efficient manner. The position also involves ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards and minimizing legal risks to the bank.

Key Responsibilities 

Litigation Case Management:

• Assist in managing the bank’s litigation matters, including claims, disputes, and debt recovery actions.
• Monitor and follow up on court cases to ensure deadlines and procedural requirements are met.
• Support the preparation of court documents such as pleadings, affidavits, motions, and petitions.

Legal Research and Documentation:

• Conduct thorough legal research on issues related to ongoing litigation and emerging legal trends.
• Prepare and review legal documents, reports, and correspondence to support litigation processes.
• Ensure that all legal filings are done within set timelines and in compliance with legal procedures.

Advisory and Support:

• Provide legal advice to internal stakeholders regarding ongoing and potential litigation matters.
• Assist the Legal Manager - Litigation in developing litigation strategies and risk management approaches.

External Counsel Coordination:

• Liaise with and provide instructions to external counsel on ongoing litigation cases.
• Review and evaluate external counsel’s work product, ensuring it aligns with the bank’s objectives.
• Monitor legal costs and ensure that external legal fees remain within budget.

Dispute Resolution Support:

• Support dispute resolution processes, including settlement negotiations and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms.
• Draft and review settlement agreements, ensuring they are legally sound and in the best interest of the bank.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Assist in assessing legal risks associated with litigation cases and recommend appropriate mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, legal standards, and court orders in relation to litigation matters.

Reporting and Communication:

• Prepare regular reports on the progress and status of litigation matters for senior management.
• Ensure effective communication of legal risks, opportunities, and litigation strategies to the relevant stakeholders.

Record Management and Filing:

• Maintain proper records and databases of all litigation files, including pleadings, orders, and other legal documents.
• Ensure that all documentation is accurate, up-to-date, and easily retrievable for internal review or audit.

Training and Development:

• Assist in providing training and updates to internal teams on litigation processes and legal developments.
• Support the development and growth of junior legal officers in the litigation team.

Qualifications, Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in law (LLB) from a recognized institution
• Professional Qualifications: Admitted as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya with a valid practicing certificate and a member of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK).

Key Competencies & Skills

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong understanding of Kenyan laws related to banking, finance, and dispute resolution.
• Excellent legal research, writing, and drafting skills.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to handle multiple litigation cases simultaneously.
• Good communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Key Performance Indicators:

• Timeliness and accuracy in the preparation and filing of court documents.
• Effective management and resolution of litigation matters.
• Successful coordination with external counsel and internal stakeholders.
• Compliance with legal and regulatory requirements in all litigation processes.
• Quality and accuracy of legal reports and case updates to senior management
• Experience: At least 3–5 years of post-admission experience, with a focus on litigation and dispute resolution.
• Previous experience in the banking or financial services sector is preferred but not required

Apply

https://equitybank.taleo.net/careersection/ext_new/jobdetail.ftl?job=250000MD&tz=GMT%2B03%3A00&tzname=Africa%2FNairobi