LEGAL MANAGER – LITIGATION & DEBT RECOVERY.
PremierCredit is Zambia’s leading and fastest growing International financial technology (fintech) company operating in emerging markets in Southern Africa. The company operates an online microlending and Investment platform for small businesses and individuals, making financial services inclusive, accessible, and affordable.

As part of our expansion plan, we are inviting applications from suitably qualified, experienced, ambitious, self-motivated individuals to apply for the position of Legal Manager – Litigation & Debt Recovery.

JOB BRIEF

The Legal Manager – Litigation and Debt Recovery is responsible for managing and overseeing all legal matters related to litigation and debt recovery processes. This role involves developing strategies for resolving disputes, managing legal cases, and ensuring the timely recovery of outstanding debts. The Legal Manager serves as a key advisor to senior management on legal risks and recovery strategies, ensuring that the organization’s interests are safeguarded in all legal proceedings.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Litigation Management:

• Manage and oversee the organization’s litigation portfolio, including disputes related to contracts, collections, and other legal matters.
• Prepare and review legal documents such as pleadings, motions, and briefs, ensuring they align with the organization’s legal strategies.
• Coordinate with external legal counsel, ensuring effective representation in court cases, arbitrations, and mediations.
• Monitor ongoing cases, provide regular updates to senior management, and recommend strategic legal actions.
• Ensure that all litigation activities are conducted in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

2. Debt Recovery Strategy:

• Develop and implement effective debt recovery strategies to optimize the recovery of outstanding debts.
• Oversee the issuance of demand letters, filing of legal claims, and enforcement of judgments for debt recovery cases.
• Collaborate with internal collections teams and external agencies to ensure the timely resolution of debt recovery matters.
• Negotiate settlements, payment plans, and other recovery agreements with debtors.
• Monitor and report on the performance of debt recovery efforts, identifying and addressing challenges in the process.

3. Legal Advisory and Support:

• Provide legal advice to internal stakeholders on matters related to credit risk, collections, and dispute resolution.
• Draft and review legal agreements, contracts, settlement agreements, and other relevant documentation.
• Ensure that all legal actions and recovery efforts comply with internal policies, industry regulations, and best practices.
• Keep the organization updated on relevant legal developments and changes in debt recovery laws and regulations.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB) with a valid practicing certificate. A master’s degree or additional certifications in litigation, debt recovery, or commercial law is an advantage.
• 5-8 years of experience in legal practice, with a focus on litigation, debt recovery, or commercial law.
• Proven track record of managing legal disputes and overseeing debt recovery operations in a corporate or financial environment.
• In-depth knowledge of debt recovery processes, legal dispute resolution methods, and court procedures
• Strong negotiation, communication, and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple legal cases simultaneously and work under pressure.
• Experience working with external legal counsel and managing external partnerships.

Key Competencies:

• Litigation Expertise: Strong understanding of legal processes, court procedures, and dispute resolution strategies.
• Debt Recovery Skills: Proven experience in developing and executing debt recovery strategies, including settlements and enforcement actions.
• Risk Management: Ability to identify and mitigate legal risks related to litigation and debt recovery.
• Negotiation: Excellent negotiation skills to reach favourable settlements and agreements with debtors.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey legal concepts clearly to non-legal stakeholders.
• Analytical Thinking: Ability to assess legal issues critically and provide practical solutions.
  Work Environment:
• Location: The role is based at the company’s headquarters, with occasional travel required for court appearances, legal proceedings, and stakeholder meetings.
• Working Conditions: The position involves working in a dynamic environment, often managing multiple cases and projects simultaneously