Role Overview

As a Legal Counsel at Arrow Electronics in Penang, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, you will play a pivotal role in safeguarding the company's interests across South Asia, Korea, and Japan. Reporting directly to the Legal Director and Vice President of Legal, your expertise will be instrumental in navigating medium to complex sales, business, and corporate transactions. This position demands a seasoned professional capable of interfacing with top executives, including Presidents, Vice Presidents, Managing Directors, and Board members, providing unflinching legal guidance on contracts, policies, and compliance without constant supervision.

Penang's vibrant business ecosystem, particularly along Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, positions Arrow Electronics at the heart of Malaysia's tech hub. Your responsibilities will span reviewing intricate agreements—from Master Sales Agreements and Vendor Management Inventory deals to Confidentiality Agreements and Sponsorship pacts. You'll also tackle operational contracts like licensing, employment terms, real property leases, and logistics arrangements, ensuring they align with business objectives while minimizing risks.

Beyond transactional work, you'll champion corporate governance, liaising with local secretarial firms for statutory filings, director changes, and apostille support. Litigation management falls under your purview, from issuing demand letters to overseeing pleadings in active disputes. This role is not just reactive; it's proactive—conducting legal research, drafting memoranda, developing training materials, and advising cross-functional teams on risk mitigation.

Day in the Life

Imagine starting your day at Arrow's Penang office, overlooking the bustling Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah. By 9 AM, you're diving into emails from the Sales team flagging a urgent contract review for a major distributor in Korea. You dissect the Distribution Agreement, negotiating terms with stakeholders via video call, incorporating feedback from Finance and Risk Management.

Mid-morning, you pivot to corporate secretarial duties, coordinating quarterly lodgements with Malaysian authorities and preparing apostille documents for a new entity setup in India. Lunch brings a quick team huddle where you brainstorm compliance updates. Post-lunch, you're in a high-stakes meeting with the President, advising on a complex Vendor Engagement Agreement that could unlock millions in revenue.

Afternoon involves legal research on evolving Malaysian regulations, followed by drafting a settlement agreement to resolve a supplier dispute. As the day winds down, you facilitate a training session for the Business Operations team on key contractual pitfalls, then update the legal database with all documentation. Wrapping up around 6 PM, you reflect on a day that balanced urgency, strategy, and collaboration—hallmarks of life as Legal Counsel at Arrow.

Why Penang, Pulau Pinang?

Penang, Pulau Pinang, stands as Malaysia's Silicon Valley, blending world-class manufacturing with a rich cultural tapestry. Home to global giants in electronics, semiconductors, and tech distribution, it's the perfect launchpad for a Legal Counsel role at Arrow Electronics. The island's strategic location fosters seamless connectivity to South Asia markets, with Penang International Airport just minutes away.

Beyond business, Penang captivates with UNESCO-listed George Town, street food paradises like Gurney Drive, and pristine beaches in Batu Ferringhi. Families thrive here with top international schools, affordable healthcare, and a multicultural vibe where Malay, Chinese, Indian, and expat communities harmonize. Cost of living is remarkably low—luxury condos average $500K USD, dining out costs pennies compared to Singapore. English is ubiquitous, easing integration for professionals worldwide.

Arrow's Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah office places you in the commercial epicenter, near malls, cafes, and the iconic Komtar. With Malaysia's progressive policies attracting FDI, Penang offers unmatched career stability and growth in a tax-friendly environment (no capital gains tax). Whether hiking Penang Hill or diving into tech conferences, this city fuels ambition while nurturing work-life balance.

Career Growth Path

At Arrow Electronics, Legal Counsel in Penang is a springboard to leadership. Excel here, and you'll advance to Senior Legal Counsel within 2-3 years, then Legal Director for Southeast Asia. High performers interface globally, eyeing VP Legal roles or regional General Counsel positions. Arrow invests in your ascent via mentorship, cross-border projects, and leadership programs.

Internal mobility shines: transition to Compliance Officer, Risk Management Lead, or even Commercial roles leveraging your business acumen. Certifications like Malaysian Bar specializations or international arbitration quals are fully funded. Alumni have climbed to C-suite in Fortune 500 firms, testament to Arrow's 70% internal promotion rate in legal functions.

Compensation & Benefits

Earning potential as Legal Counsel in Penang rivals regional hubs, with base salaries estimated at $80,000-$120,000 USD annually, plus performance bonuses up to 20%. Total rewards include comprehensive health coverage, retirement matching, and stock options. Arrow's package outpaces local averages by 30%, factoring in Malaysia's low taxes (progressive up to 30%).

Perks extend to wellness stipends, unlimited PTO accrual, and family support like fertility benefits. Global expat packages for relocators cover housing allowances and schooling. In Penang's economy, this translates to affluent living—private villas, international schools, and frequent Asia travel.

Team & Culture

Arrow's Penang legal team is a tight-knit powerhouse of 10-15 pros, blending local talent with regional experts. Culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and fun—monthly hakaw lunches, virtual escape rooms, and CSR drives. Diversity thrives: 50% women in leadership, inclusive of all backgrounds.

Expect a supportive vibe where feedback flows freely, backed by modern offices with ergonomic setups and hybrid flexibility. Leadership fosters autonomy, celebrating wins with spot bonuses. As a global distributor, Arrow's entrepreneurial spirit empowers you to shape strategies impacting billions in revenue.

How to Apply

Ready to elevate your legal career? Visit Arrow's careers portal, search 'Legal Counsel Penang,' and submit your CV, cover letter, and Bar certificate. Tailor your application highlighting transaction experience. Shortlisted candidates enjoy 3-round interviews: HR screen, manager deep-dive, exec panel. Offers extend within 2 weeks, with start dates flexible. Join us—applications close soon!

FAQ Section

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