Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer and serving as a member of the Executive Committee, the Executive Head: Legal & Governance will provide strategic leadership across the Company’s Legal, Governance, Compliance and Company Secretarial functions.
Job Summary
- Employer: SESIRO INSURANCE COMPANY (A member of the Detswana Group)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Legal
- Closing Date: 2026-10-02
Key Responsibilities
- Contributing to organisation-wide strategy, governance and executive decision-making as a member of the Executive Committee.
- Advising the Company, Board of Directors and Executive Management on legal, governance, regulatory, risk and reputational matters.
- Championing sound corporate governance practices in accordance with applicable legislation, regulatory requirements and the King Codes of Good Practice.
- Developing and implementing the Company’s Legal Affairs, Governance and Compliance strategies.
- Providing oversight of legal advice, litigation and other legal support required by the Company.
- Drafting, reviewing, interpreting and vetting contracts, agreements and other legal documents to minimise the Company’s legal exposure.
- Monitoring developments within the insurance regulatory environment and ensuring that the Company responds appropriately.
- Aligning the Company’s risk management framework with the applicable risk-based regulatory compliance framework.
- Overseeing regulatory submissions, compliance returns and governance documentation.
- Serving as the principal adviser to the Company, Board and Shareholders on governance and company secretarial matters.
- Developing governance policies, committee terms of reference, procedures and related governance instruments.
- Overseeing the preparation of Board and committee agendas, papers, minutes, resolutions and action-tracking records.
- Coordinating Board and committee meetings in consultation with the Chief Executive Officer and Board of Directors.
- Providing strategic legal guidance on employment contracts, collective agreements, disciplinary matters, industrial disputes and other labour-related matters.
- Providing legal oversight and guidance on insurance policy wording, claims, broker and third-party agreements, debt recovery and related matters.
- Leading, developing and managing employees within the function to ensure effective performance and organisational capability.
Requirements
- A Bachelor of Laws degree (LLB).
- A relevant postgraduate qualification in Law, Business, Governance or a related field, such as an LLM, MBA or CIS, will be an added advantage.
- Between eight and twelve years of post-qualification experience in corporate legal, governance or compliance work.
- At least five years of experience in a senior or executive management position.
- Demonstrable experience in a company or Board secretarial role.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: tsammereko.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and professional registrations are typically required for an Executive Head: Legal & Governance role in Botswana?
A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree is essential, with many employers preferring a Master of Laws or MBA. You must be admitted as an attorney of the High Court of Botswana and hold a current practicing certificate. Additional certifications in corporate governance, such as those from the Botswana Institute of Chartered Accountants or international bodies, are highly valued.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Executive Head: Legal & Governance in a Botswana insurance company?
You will oversee all legal matters including policy drafting, regulatory compliance with NBFIRA requirements, and litigation management. The role involves advising the board on governance matters, ensuring adherence to the Botswana Companies Act, and managing relationships with external legal counsel. You will also lead internal audits and risk assessments to protect the company from legal and reputational risks.
How does workplace culture and hierarchy typically function for senior legal executives in Botswana companies?
Botswana workplaces generally respect formal hierarchies and value consultative decision-making, with senior executives expected to demonstrate diplomacy and patience. Building personal relationships and maintaining face-to-face communication are important, even as organizations modernize. Punctuality and professional dress are expected, and understanding local customs and Setswana language basics can strengthen workplace integration.
What career progression opportunities exist for legal executives in Botswana's insurance and financial services sector?
Progression typically moves from senior legal counsel to head of legal, then to executive or group-level positions such as Chief Legal Officer or Company Secretary. Some professionals transition into broader executive roles like Chief Operating Officer or Managing Director. Regional expansion within SADC markets also creates opportunities for pan-African legal leadership positions.
What employee benefits are commonly offered to senior legal executives at Botswana insurance companies?
Benefits usually include comprehensive medical aid coverage for you and dependents, often through schemes like Botswana Public Officers Medical Aid Scheme or private alternatives. Employers typically provide pension contributions, generous annual leave exceeding statutory minimums, and sometimes vehicle allowances or housing benefits. Group life insurance and performance bonuses linked to company results are also standard at executive levels.
What do employers in Botswana typically look for when hiring for senior legal and governance positions, and how should I apply?
Employers seek demonstrated experience with Botswana's regulatory framework, particularly NBFIRA and Companies Act compliance, plus a track record of board-level engagement. Strong references from reputable local or regional firms and proven leadership of legal teams are essential. Applications should be submitted through formal channels with a detailed CV, certified qualifications, and a cover letter addressing specific governance challenges in the Botswana insurance sector.
