Legal Officer (Loan Recovery & Litigation)

About the role

A microfinance bank is looking for a competent, proactive and results-driven Legal Officer with practical experience in loan recovery, debt management and litigation support. The officer provides legal and operational support for the bank's recovery of delinquent loans through recovery channels, legal procedures and enforcement mechanisms.

Key responsibilities

• Provide legal support and guidance on loan recovery, especially for delinquent and non-performing loan accounts
• Work with the Credit and Recovery teams to develop and implement recovery strategies
• Prepare demand letters, letters of notice, repayment reminders and other legal correspondence to defaulting borrowers and guarantors
• Review loan agreements, guarantees, collateral documents and other credit instruments for proper documentation and enforceability
• Support recovery through negotiation, mediation and settlement agreements
• Liaise with external solicitors, law enforcement agencies and courts
• Conduct legal searches and due diligence on collateral and security instruments
• Support repossession and enforcement of collateral in line with the law
• Maintain records of recovery actions, legal proceedings and court processes
• Advise management on legal risks in lending, credit administration and debt enforcement
• Ensure compliance with laws, regulations and internal policies

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Law (LL.B) and a qualifying certificate from the Nigerian Law School
• Called to the Nigerian Bar with a valid practising status
• 2-4 years of relevant legal experience, preferably in a microfinance bank, commercial bank, financial institution or debt recovery organisation
• Demonstrable experience in microfinance loan recovery and delinquent account management

Required skills

• Knowledge of loan recovery procedures, debt enforcement, litigation and alternative dispute resolution
• Experience preparing demand notices, legal opinions and loan agreements
• Good understanding of banking operations and financial sector regulations
• Negotiation, legal research, drafting and analytical abilities
• Ability to work independently and with the Credit, Risk Management and Operations teams