HEAD OF LEGAL AND BOARD SECRETARY – CIPA

VACANCY 

The Companies and Intellectual Property Authority (CIPA) is a parastatal established by an Act of Parliament, the Companies and Intellectual Property Authority Act of 2011, to promote and enable the full protection of the rights of investors obtained under the Companies Act, Registration of Business Names Act, Industrial Property Act, and the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act.

The Authority is positioning itself for the advancement of its mandate and is searching for some dynamic individuals to take up the following positions.

HEAD OF LEGAL AND BOARD SECRETARY

The role of the Head of Legal and Board Secretary is to develop a functional legal operating model as well as providing company secretarial services to ensure compliance with statutory requirements. To ensure that Board decisions are implemented and that the rights and interests of CIPA are protected. Serves as a liaison between the Board of CIPA, its advisory bodies, Registrar General and the public, ensuring that all matters are handled efficiently and effectively.

Key Performance Areas

* Leads and develops the legal function, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and upholding the highest standards of legal compliance and corporate governance;
* Contributes to the development of CIPA strategy through the identification of legal risk;
* Develops and delivers strategic legal risk management initiatives;
* As a key member of the Executive Team, the role provides legal insights to inform strategic decision-making and policy development;
* Manages the legal team, thereby fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment;
* Ensures adherence to all applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards, proactively addressing compliance issues and implementing necessary changes;
* Leads in the creation and implementation of legal policies and procedures that support the CIPA’s operations and strategic initiatives;
* Advises and collaborates with internal stakeholders, including senior management and various departments, you will navigate complex legal matters to support business objectives;
* Manages relationships with external legal counsel, regulatory bodies, and other relevant entities, as well as safeguarding the Authority’s interests and;
* Provides legal training and guidance to colleagues, enhancing their understanding of legal principles and fostering a culture of compliance within the Authority.

Qualifications

* A law degree (LLB) from a recognised university, admitted to practice in the Courts of Botswana. Post-graduate qualification in commercial law/business field will be an added advantage.

Experience

* Minimum of ten (10) years’ experience post qualification experience, five (5) of which as a practicing attorney. Experience as a Board Secretary, providing legal and Board secretary services to a large organization;
* Corporate Legal Expertise: Extensive experience in corporate law within publicly listed companies, including corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and shareholder relations;
* Subsidiary Management: Proven experience managing legal affairs for organizations with multiple subsidiaries across various jurisdictions, ensuring alignment with group policies and mitigating legal risks;
* Labor Relations: Demonstrated expertise in labour law, including handling union negotiations and workforce-related legal issues for large employee bases, and;
* Regulatory Compliance: In-depth knowledge of legal and regulatory frameworks with a track record of ensuring organizational compliance.

Competency Requirements

* Integrity
* Professionalism
* Achievement and Orientation
* Planning, Organising and Coordinating
* Team Cooperation & Commitment
* Results Focused & Commitment
* Decisiveness and Assertiveness
* Consultation & Interpersonal Relations