Lead Legal Counsel Corporate and Compliance at Oman Investment Authority

The Oman Investment Authority (OIA) is inviting applications for the pivotal role of Lead Legal Counsel Corporate and Compliance at its headquarters in Muscat. This position represents a premier career opportunity for highly experienced legal professionals to join one of the Sultanate's most significant national investment entities.

Overview of Oman Investment Authority

The Oman Investment Authority is the sovereign wealth fund of the Sultanate of Oman. It plays a central role in managing and developing the state's financial reserves to achieve sustainable long-term returns. The Authority oversees a diversified investment portfolio across sectors and assets, both domestically and internationally, creating a dynamic work environment that demands the highest standards of governance and legal compliance.

Job Description and Key Responsibilities

The Lead Legal Counsel will provide support and leadership in all legal aspects related to corporate affairs and regulatory compliance. Core responsibilities include:

• Overseeing Corporate Legal Structuring: Advising on mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, joint ventures, and new investments undertaken by the Authority or its portfolio.
• Leading the Compliance Framework: Developing, implementing, and monitoring comprehensive compliance policies and procedures to ensure the Authority and all its subsidiaries adhere to relevant local and international laws and regulations, particularly within the financial and investment sector.
• Drafting and Reviewing Contracts: Reviewing and drafting complex, high-value contracts and agreements with local and international partners, including investment agreements, shareholders' agreements, and service contracts.
• Managing Legal Risk: Identifying, assessing, and mitigating legal risks facing the Authority's activities, proposing proactive solutions.
• Liaising with Regulatory Bodies: Representing the Authority in interactions with regulatory and supervisory bodies in Oman and abroad, ensuring all required disclosures and reports are submitted in a timely manner.
• Leadership and Guidance: Mentoring and developing a smaller legal team or working closely with other departments to provide strategic legal support.

Qualifications and Requirements

To be a successful candidate for this leadership role, you must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Background: A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from a recognized university. A Master of Laws (LLM) or an advanced professional certification in Corporate Law or Financial Compliance will be a strong added advantage.
• Professional Experience: Minimum 8 to 10 years of legal practice experience, with a strong focus on corporate law, M&A, and regulatory compliance. Prior experience within the investment sector, financial services, sovereign wealth funds, or a major financial institution environment is essential.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Deep knowledge of relevant Omani laws and regulations (e.g., Commercial Companies Law, Capital Market Law). Knowledge of international frameworks (e.g., AML/CFT, sanctions compliance) is a significant advantage.
• Skills: Exceptional analytical and advisory skills. Ability to explain complex legal concepts to non-lawyers. Excellent communication and negotiation skills in both Arabic and English (verbal and written). Ability to work under pressure and address challenges in a fast-paced environment.
• Personal Attributes: High integrity, strong business acumen, and the ability to lead and make independent decisions.

Job Location

Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.

How to Apply

Applications for the position are to be submitted via the specialized online platform Naukrigulf. Please search for the job listing under the title "Lead Legal Counsel Corporate and Compliance" with the location "Oman". Ensure you prepare a professional Curriculum Vitae (CV) in both English and Arabic, highlighting your relevant experience in corporate and compliance matters within the investment or financial sector. Include a cover letter detailing your suitability for this leadership role within a strategic entity like the Oman Investment Authority.

Given the sensitivity and seniority of this role, the selection process is expected to be competitive and thorough. The Authority encourages genuinely qualified candidates with the required practical experience to apply.