Legal Associate (Junior Legal Manager)

About Us: Founded in 2018, headquartered in Johannesburg, and backed by leading investors including Pantera Capital, Coinbase Ventures and Fidelity’s F-Prime Capital, VALR is a global crypto exchange offering a comprehensive suite of products—including Spot Trading, Spot Margin, Perpetual Futures, Staking, Lending, Borrowing, OTC services, VALR Invest, Crypto Bundles, and VALR Pay. Licensed by South Africa’s FSCA, with regulatory approval in Europe, VALR serves over 1.7 million registered users and 2,000 corporate and institutional clients worldwide. The exchange is dedicated to advancing a just financial future that upholds human dignity and the unity of mankind. For more information, visit valr.com. Our Vision: To establish VALR as a global institution that advances the economic life of human civilisation through a borderless, inclusive, and empowering financial ecosystem. Our Mission: To contribute towards a global financial system that upholds justice, fosters human dignity, and reflects the oneness of humanity, by serving the financial needs of individuals, communities, and institutions through innovative financial technologies. At least 3 years of legal experience, ideally with exposure to fintech, crypto, or financial services sectors. Experience in a top-tier law firm or high-growth business is highly advantageous. Knowledge of emerging financial regulation, particularly in crypto and digital assets, is advantageous but not essential. Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, remote-first business. Strong business acumen, with a practical and solutions-oriented approach to legal matters. Passion for crypto, blockchain, and/or alternative financial systems. Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively. Ability to remain calm and effective when managing sensitive or high-pressure matters, including supporting crisis management processes. Strong problem-solving skills, with a flexible and innovative approach. Ability to identify emerging trends, anticipate potential risks, and apply sound judgement. Strong communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills. Willingness to contribute to both strategic legal initiatives and the practical, day-to-day legal requirements of a fast-paced business. Ability to support the Senior Legal Manager and wider Legal team in delivering effective legal services across the Group. Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or equivalent international legal qualification. Admission as an attorney (or equivalent legal professional status) preferred. Providing general yet comprehensive legal advice and support to VALR’s departments and stakeholders, both locally and globally, escalating complex matters to the Senior Legal Manager where appropriate. Supporting the Senior Legal Manager in developing and implementing legal strategies to mitigate risk and ensure compliance. Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts, agreements, templates, policies and procedures, and other legal documents. Staying up to date with the evolving cryptocurrency regulatory landscape and supporting engagement with regulators on the implementation of new legislation within the industry. Assisting with global expansion, business development, and regulatory compliance insofar as legal knowledge is required for these areas. Helping to ensure that VALR’s rights are protected and risks are limited on ad hoc projects such as new product launches, mergers and acquisitions, financing rounds, and entity creation around the world, as well as ad hoc customer issues and queries. Conducting legal research and providing clear, concise analysis of legal issues. Providing general training and coaching of internal resources on legal matters and policies. Liaising with external counsel, regulators, and law enforcement as and when required, under the guidance of the Senior Legal Manager. Maintaining and updating legal databases, templates, and records. Innovative Work Environment Engage with the latest blockchain technologies and tools in a rapidly evolving industry. Work from anywhere with secure, stable internet connectivity, allowing you to create your ideal workspace. Career Development Benefit from an annual professional development allowance alongside scheduled company training sessions to keep you at the forefront of the crypto industry. Competitive Compensation Competitive salaries that align with industry standards. When you contribute to our success, you’ll be rewarded with discretionary bonuses, recognising your impact on VALR’s growth. Receive preferential Tier 5 trading fees on VALR, with no monthly trading volume required. Diversity and Inclusion A commitment to fostering a diverse workforce with initiatives that promote equity and belonging. Wellness Employees are encouraged to strive for coherent and wholesome lives, fulfilling their work, personal, social, physical and spiritual goals to the best of their abilities. Compliance with statutory leave required by individual countries, in addition to flexible leave options. Enjoy lunch on us when working from our Johannesburg Head Office, one of the ways we support wellbeing and connection in the workplace. Impact and Contribution At VALR, we believe in a financial system that recognises the oneness of humanity. Our mission is to break down financial barriers and promote universal values of courage, ethical integrity, and the intrinsic worth of every individual. Engage in initiatives that promote education and awareness about cryptocurrencies, ensuring that everyone has the tools and knowledge to participate in the evolving financial landscape. Dynamic Team Culture Open communication and teamwork across departments, fostering innovation and creativity. Enjoy social gatherings outside of work to strengthen team bonds and boost morale. Global Exposure Work with colleagues from around the world. Exposure to diverse perspectives and practices in the crypto space. Recognition and Rewards Regular acknowledgement of employee accomplishments, fostering a culture of appreciation and motivation. Join us for retreats that blend professional development with team bonding in inspiring locations. Tools for Success Receive a Mac laptop and a discretionary allowance to purchase all the extras needed for a productive home office—yours to keep after three years (terms and conditions apply).