The Unit Head Litigation will oversee and manage all aspects of litigation for U Microfinance Bank Ltd. ensuring effective litigation and risk management. This role requires a strategic thinker with extensive experience in financial services litigation, a strong leadership capability, and the ability to work closely with various internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Litigation Management:

• Lead and manage the bank’s litigation strategy and execution for all civil, commercial, regulatory, and employment-related matters.
• Oversee and coordinate with external legal counsel to ensure effective representation and legal outcomes.
• Develop and implement litigation policies and procedures in alignment with the bank’s goals and regulatory requirements.
• Handle routine legal queries from branches and the Head Office, especially related to litigation.
• Handle and manage contentious and non-contentious litigation.
• Draft written responses to be submitted in Courts or State Bank of Pakistan or any other competent authorities.
• Draft Show Cause Notices as and when required as per the investigation reports shared by the HR department
• To actively participate in the HRCC meetings and handle matters related to HRCC
• To maintain a close follow up with local lawyers at branch level on all cases and take updates on case status
• To extend full support to the branches in terms of legal issues especially related to litigation
• Drafting and vetting different contracts/agreements, legal opinions etc.
• To act as a focal person to impart advise to the braches on court notices and orders etc.
• To manage and update the litigation dashboard, as per the agreed timeline.
• To visit branches and local courts with lawyers on the panel from time to time to monitor the on ground situation and performance of the lawyers on the panel.
• To extend all and any support required by the legal team and undertake any additional responsibility assigned by Chief Legal Officer and Head of Legal.

Strategic Planning:

• Analyze potential legal risks and provide strategic recommendations to minimize exposure.
• Evaluate complex legal issues and devise effective legal strategies and solutions.
• Prepare and present reports on litigation matters to senior management and the board of directors.

Team Leadership:

• Supervise and mentor the litigation team, providing guidance on case management, legal research, and dispute resolution.
• Foster a collaborative and productive work environment, encouraging professional development and continuous learning.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Liaise with various departments within the bank, including compliance, risk management, and finance, to address litigation-related concerns.
• Maintain relationships with external legal professionals, regulatory bodies, and industry groups.

Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
• Monitor changes in legislation and industry practices to proactively address potential impacts on the bank.

Case Management:

• Oversee the preparation and filing of legal documents, court pleadings, and other litigation-related paperwork.
• Manage case budgets, timelines, and resource allocation effectively.

Requirement:

• Education: LLb degree from an accredited law school; admission to the bar; Candidates with Bar-at-law will be preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 08 to 10 years of experience in litigation, with at least 5 years in a managerial role, preferably in the financial services sector.

Skills:

• Strong understanding of banking and financial regulations.
• Proven ability to develop and execute strategic legal plans.
• Excellent negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities.

Personal Attributes:

• High level of integrity and professionalism.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively.