Summary
Bybit is hiring a Lead Licensing Counsel in Abu Dhabi to manage licensing processes for new market entries and assess regulatory requirements across jurisdictions. The role includes preparing applications and supporting documents, engaging with regulators and external counsel, tracking licensing obligations, and coordinating with internal teams. Applicants should have a law degree and 2–5 years of experience in regulatory law, licensing, or compliance, with relevant financial services, fintech, or cryptocurrency exposure preferred. Strong legal research, drafting, project management, and English communication skills are required.
The posting
As published on bybit.com. Pulled from the employer's site and shown as they wrote it.
About Us
Established in 2018, Bybit is one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchanges and digital financial platforms, serving over 80 million users across more than 200 countries and regions. Powered by world-class technology and a user-first mindset, Bybit delivers a seamless ecosystem across trading, payments, wealth management, custody, institutional services, and Web3 — connecting users to the future of digital finance.
Our core values define how we build. We listen, care and improve to create products and experiences that put users first. Backed by a global team of ambitious builders, problem-solvers, and innovators, we foster a high-performance and fast-moving environment where talent is empowered to drive real impact at the global scale. Supported by 24/7 multilingual customer service and a strong commitment to innovation, we are shaping the future of finance through technology, collaboration, and bold execution.
Today, Bybit is recognized as one of the most trusted and transparent platforms in the digital asset industry, continuing to expand its global presence while building the infrastructure for the next generation of financial services.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage the end-to-end licensing process for new market entries globally, including application preparation, submission, and regulatory engagement
Conduct jurisdictional assessments to evaluate licensing requirements, timelines and strategic feasibility for target markets and to support the expansion requirements of the company
Prepare, draft, and coordinate licensing applications, supporting documentation, business plans, and regulatory questionnaires
Liaise directly with regulators, external counsel, and government authorities across jurisdictions to advance licensing matters
Monitor global regulatory developments that may create new licensing obligations or opportunities for the exchange
Maintain and manage a global licensing tracker covering application status, renewal deadlines, conditions, and ongoing obligations
Coordinate with internal stakeholders (Legal, Compliance, Finance, Operations, Product) to gather information and align on licensing requirements
Support post-licensing compliance, including condition monitoring, variation applications, and periodic reporting to regulators (where applicable)
Prepare internal briefings and status reports on licensing progress for senior leadership
Build and maintain relationships with external legal advisors across jurisdictions to support licensing activities
Requirements
Law degree (LLB, JD, or equivalent); admission to practice in at least one jurisdiction is preferred
2-5 years of experience in regulatory law, licensing, or compliance — with meaningful exposure to financial services, fintech, or cryptocurrency (preference)
Demonstrated experience with licence applications or regulatory approvals (e.g., VASP, MPI, EMI, broker-dealer, or equivalent authorisations)
Understanding of global licensing frameworks for virtual asset service providers and/or financial institutions
Strong legal research, drafting, and analytical skills with the ability to distil complex regulatory requirements into actionable advice
Excellent project management skills — ability to manage multiple licensing workstreams across jurisdictions simultaneously
Strong written and verbal communication in English; additional languages relevant to target jurisdictions are a plus
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, decentralised, and globally distributed team
Collaborative mindset and a good team player with the ability to work closely with internal teams as well as independently
Fast learner, able to hit the ground running. takes ownership of projects, has pride in the work
Preferred Qualifications
Direct experience with cryptocurrency or digital asset licensing preferred but not an absolute must (VASP registrations, MAS MPI, VARA licences, EU MiCA authorisations, ADGM licences etc.)
Familiarity with key licensing regimes in APAC, MENA, Europe, or Latin America
Experience working with regulators across multiple jurisdictions concurrently
Understanding of AML/CFT requirements as they relate to licensing conditions and ongoing obligations
Prior in-house experience at a crypto exchange, fintech, or global financial services firm would be seen favourably but candidates with law firm experience will not be discounted
Why Join Us
At Bybit, we are committed to fostering a supportive and enriching work environment.
Our benefits include:
- Study Growth Fund: We support your professional development and continuous learning.
- Internal Events: Participate in regular team-building activities, workshops, and events designed to promote collaboration and innovation.
- Global Collaboration: Be part of a diverse, international team, working alongside colleagues from around the world.
- Career Advancement: Access opportunities for growth and advancement within a rapidly expanding global company.
- Internal Mobility: Grow with us- Your long-term development is important to us. We offer internal job opportunities to help build your career path.