Head of Legal
hyphenconnect
Japan
Posted Mar 24, 2026
- Other
- Legal
hyphenconnect
Japan
Posted Mar 24, 2026
We are a crypto-native investment fund at the frontier of Decentralized Finance (DeFi). As we deploy capital into the most innovative protocols and infrastructure projects, we are seeking a Head of Legal to architect our global fund structures and navigate the rapidly evolving intersection of traditional finance and blockchain technology.
Lead the legal design and maintenance of investment vehicles across multiple jurisdictions, ensuring they are optimized for crypto-native institutional and retail participation.
Develop and oversee a robust compliance framework that addresses AML/KYC requirements, securities laws, and evolving regulatory mandates in key global markets.
Manage the legal lifecycle of deal flows, from reviewing SAFEs/SAFTs and token purchase agreements to overseeing complex DeFi-native investment strategies.
Act as the primary point of contact for regulators and external counsel, staying ahead of legislative changes that impact DeFi and digital asset management.
Establish internal legal protocols for treasury management, employee incentive schemes (token options), and corporate governance.
You have extensive experience in high-level investment management and understand how to bridge the gap between "Code is Law" and traditional legal frameworks.
You don't just understand law; you understand smart contracts, liquidity pools, and the unique legal challenges of non-custodial investment strategies.
You are comfortable making high-stakes decisions in "grey" regulatory areas, providing clear, actionable advice rather than just listing risks.
You are adept at managing a network of international law firms to ensure seamless operations across different regulatory regimes.
10+ years of legal experience, with a significant portion spent in Investment Management (Hedge Funds, PE, or VC).
Proven track record in a Senior Legal role within the crypto/Web3 sector.
Deep knowledge of global securities laws and the regulatory landscape for DeFi.
Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent law degree and active bar membership in good standing.
Experience with cross-border tax structuring and offshore fund jurisdictions (e.g., Cayman, BVI, Singapore, etc.).