Head of Legal

🇯🇵 Tokyo, Japan
Posted 2 weeks ago
Expires May 30, 2026
Full TimeOn-siteLegalIn-House Legal

Hyphen Connect is a crypto-native investment fund at the forefront of Decentralized Finance (DeFi). As we deploy capital into innovative protocols and infrastructure projects, we are seeking a Head of Legal to architect our global fund structures and navigate the evolving intersection of traditional finance and blockchain technology.

The Head of Legal will lead the design and maintenance of investment vehicles across multiple jurisdictions, ensuring optimization for crypto-native institutional and retail participation. Responsibilities include developing and overseeing a robust compliance framework addressing AML/KYC requirements, securities laws, and evolving regulatory mandates in key global markets. The role also involves managing the legal lifecycle of deal flows, from reviewing SAFEs/SAFTs and token purchase agreements to overseeing complex DeFi-native investment strategies. Acting as the primary point of contact for regulators and external counsel, the Head of Legal will stay ahead of legislative changes impacting DeFi and digital asset management. Additionally, the position entails establishing internal legal protocols for treasury management, employee incentive schemes (token options), and corporate governance.

The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in high-level investment management and understands how to bridge the gap between "Code is Law" and traditional legal frameworks. A deep understanding of smart contracts, liquidity pools, and the unique legal challenges of non-custodial investment strategies is essential. The candidate should be comfortable making high-stakes decisions in "grey" regulatory areas, providing clear, actionable advice. Adeptness at managing a network of international law firms to ensure seamless operations across different regulatory regimes is also required.

Requirements include 10+ years of legal experience, with a significant portion spent in Investment Management (Hedge Funds, PE, or VC). A proven track record in a Senior Legal role within the crypto/Web3 sector is necessary. Deep knowledge of global securities laws and the regulatory landscape for DeFi is essential. A Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent law degree and active bar membership in good standing are required. Experience with cross-border tax structuring and offshore fund jurisdictions (e.g., Cayman, BVI, Singapore) is also necessary.

Hyphen Connect offers a dynamic and innovative work environment at the cutting edge of DeFi. We provide opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work with a team of experts in the field. Our company culture emphasizes collaboration, continuous learning, and staying ahead in the rapidly evolving blockchain industry.

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