Legal Counsel

Job PurposeTo provide expert legal counsel and strategic support to drive the company's growth in the Asia-Pacific region (or specify country). This role is pivotal in protecting the company's interests by leading the negotiation and drafting of complex hotel management and franchise agreements, while providing comprehensive legal support for operational excellence across the portfolio.Primary Responsibilities Hotel Development and Growth• Lead the drafting, negotiation, and finalization of Hotel Management Agreements (HMAs) and Franchise Agreements (FAs) for new projects.• Structure, draft, and negotiate agreements for strategic partnerships, joint ventures, and master franchise relationships.• Provide strategic legal advice to the Development team throughout the deal lifecycle, from term sheet to execution.2nd primary responsibilities Legal support to Hotel Operation• Serve as the primary legal point of contact for the Operations team and Pre-opening team, advising on a wide range of issues arising in both managed and franchised hotels.• Manage the renewal, amendment, and termination processes for existing HMAs and FAs.• Advise on operational matters including compliance, risk mitigation, and contractual interpretations3rd primary responsibilities • Master Franchisees: draft/finalize agreements with Master Franchisees.Knowledge and Experience• Qualified lawyer with an excellent academic background in Chinese law.• Minimum of 7 years of post-qualification experience, with a significant portion gained within a reputable law firm and/or the in-house legal team of an international corporation.• Proven track record in drafting and negotiating complex commercial agreements; direct experience with hotel management is highly advantageous.• International legal education or substantial cross-border work experience is a strong plusCompetencies• Exceptional legal drafting, analytical, and negotiation skills. Strong business acumen with the ability to provide pragmatic, solution-oriented advice.• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build trust with internal and external stakeholders. • Fluent in English, with demonstrated proficiency in legal drafting and negotiation in English.