Senior Counsel – Real Time Payments

About the role

Mastercard is seeking a Senior Counsel to join its Real Time Payments legal team. The role will primarily support Vocalink Limited, a Bank of England‑supervised payment‑system provider, while also advising other parts of the RTP division as needed.

Key responsibilities

• Provide legal advice on regulatory, compliance and commercial matters affecting Vocalink and the wider Real Time Payments business.
• Draft, review and negotiate contracts, service agreements and governance documents.
• Support the Board of Vocalink and the management committee on legal and risk issues.
• Liaise with the Payment System Regulator and other supervisory bodies.
• Assist with cross‑border and time‑zone coordination, including occasional travel.

Required profile

• Qualified lawyer with several years of experience in payments, financial services or related regulatory environments.
• Strong commercial acumen and ability to handle complex, multi‑jurisdictional legal issues.
• Excellent analytical, communication and stakeholder‑management skills.
• Motivated, intellectually curious and able to work both independently and as part of a global team.

Required skills

• In‑depth knowledge of UK payment‑system regulation and Bank of England supervision.
• Experience with the Payment System Regulator (or FCA) framework.
• Proficiency in drafting and negotiating commercial contracts.
• Ability to interpret and apply legislation to business operations.

What we offer

• A diverse, inclusive culture that values different perspectives.
• Opportunity to work on industry‑leading payment systems used worldwide.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Professional development within a global technology company.