Name: Tayo Mustapha
Position: Legal Counsel (Senior Associate)
Company: Moniepoint Inc.
Sector/Industry: Financial Services
Worked in current position for: 1 Year
Total years as an in-house lawyer: 5 years
A day in the life: Provide a brief overview of your current role (what you do, how you spend your time etc): Fortunately, my job is fully remote, which has been a tremendous advantage in avoiding the daily hustle and bustle of navigating the streets of Lagos. Working remotely allows me to create a focused and productive work environment. I start my day at 8 am, comfortably settled in my home office, where I dive into my emails and outline the key tasks for the day, prioritizing them based on urgency and importance.
My role involves ensuring the Group’s operations comply with legal and regulatory requirements. I spend my days drafting and reviewing contracts, advising on regulatory changes, ensuring that the board of directors and C-Suites execute their governance oversight function effectively, managing legal risks, and working closely with various departments to implement effective corporate governance and sustainable legal practices. I also coordinate with different departments in Nigeria and the UK to ensure consistent compliance and governance standards across our local and international operations.
Being part of a global workforce, my days often include virtual meetings with colleagues and third-parties from different time zones, allowing for a diverse exchange of ideas and perspectives.
The best thing about my current job is: I get to do something I’m excited about and deliver results that truly have an impact. I find satisfaction in finding innovative solutions and contributing to strategic decisions that positively shape the Company’s path and business expansion.
The most challenging thing about my current job is: Keeping up with the ever-changing regulatory landscape across multiple jurisdictions, especially in the heavily regulated financial services industry, which requires constant vigilance and adaptability.
Most pivotal career decision: Taking the leap to join an international financial services Group, which not only broadened my legal expertise but also has given me the chance to work on high-stakes, cross-border projects.
One of the biggest challenges I’ve had to face in your in-house career journey is: See video
Balancing the demands of a fast-paced, heavily regulated industry while ensuring that the company remains compliant across different jurisdictions. Over the course of my career, I’ve worked in various industries for different categories of client, including startups and key industry players and I have had to navigate the regulatory landscapes of multiple countries, including Nigeria, the UK, South Africa and the USA. Each jurisdiction has its own unique set of laws and regulations, and keeping up with these differences requires a deep understanding of local legal landscapes and the ability to swiftly adapt. This challenge has taught me the value of flexibility, proactive planning, and effective communication in navigating complex regulatory environments, ensuring our operations remain compliant and our business thrives.
What advice would I give my younger self? Embrace every learning opportunity, seek mentors, and never underestimate the importance of soft skills in the legal world.
Key influencers that have shaped my journey: So many people have inspired my journey, but I have been particularly shaped by some incredibly inspiring women. Bola Adesola stands out for her visionary leadership and significant contributions to the economic empowerment of women. Owen Omogiafo has made a remarkable impact in the business world with her exemplary leadership, steering her organization to new heights. Additionally, Bola Tinubu, Managing Partner at Olajide Oyewole LLP (A member of DLA Piper Africa) has profoundly influenced my approach to corporate governance, ESG, and sustainability governance with her exceptional leadership and dedication to these critical areas. These women have not only set high standards in their respective fields but have also provided a roadmap for success and integrity that I strive to attain in my own career.
One cool thing I’ve observed in the legal industry recently ? The rise of legal tech innovations that are transforming how we practice law. Tools like AI-powered contract analysis, virtual courtrooms and virtual legal assistants are streamlining processes, increasing efficiency, and reducing costs. These technologies are not only making legal work more accessible and manageable but are also enabling lawyers to focus more on strategic and advisory roles rather than routine tasks.
Also, the increasing focus on mental health and well-being within the legal profession. More firms and legal departments are recognizing the importance of supporting their employees’ mental health through wellness programs, mental health days, and open discussions about stress management.
Favourite pro bono/ volunteer or charitable activity: Volunteering with and/or contributing to NGOs that provide support to underprivileged communities, domestic abuse shelters, women and children.
If I were not practising law, I would probably be: A detective. I have a natural knack for solving mysteries and love the thrill of piecing together clues to uncover the truth.
What (singular) achievement are you most proud of? While there are several aspects of my career that I pat myself on the back for, one achievement I am particularly proud of, is learning to play the piano as an adult. It started as a way to unwind from the stresses of work, but it quickly became a passion. Balancing practice with a demanding career was challenging, yet incredibly fulfilling. Performing my first piece in front of friends was nerve-wracking, but the joy and sense of accomplishment I felt afterward were unparalleled. This journey taught me that it’s never too late to pursue new interests and that dedication and passion can lead to remarkable personal growth.
Something you love doing that but you’re not that great at? Piano. I find it relaxing and enjoyable, even though I’m not particularly skilled at it.
Something you dislike doing that you’re pretty good at ? Public speaking. Despite the butterflies I get every time, I’ve developed a knack for delivering clear and engaging presentations. The preparation can be nerve-wracking, but when I’m in front of an audience, I manage to connect and convey my message effectively. It’s a skill that has been crucial in my career, even if it’s not my favorite part of the job.
In 5 years-time I’d love to be: In an executive leadership role. Leading a team that specializes in providing top-notch compliance solutions, helping organizations enhance their corporate governance framework and ESG and sustainability practices. My aim is to support businesses and C-Suites in achieving excellence in compliance, making their organisation stand out for their commitment to global standards and regulations.