In the fast-evolving world of fintech, where banking platforms are being reimagined, legal leadership plays a critical role – not just in protecting the business, but in enabling it to move faster, smarter, and more inclusively. That’s exactly where Sefia El Yaakoubi thrives.
Since joining 10x Banking just over a year ago, Sefia has recently stepped into the role of Head of Legal, helping shape the future of financial services by embedding legal strategy into the heart of product innovation, commercial growth, and cross-functional collaboration.
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"Legal is no longer the department of no, I see the legal team as the department of how.”
Sefia’s approach to legal is refreshingly collaborative. “I see legal not just as a gatekeeper, but as a strategic enabler,” she says. “It’s about asking how we support the company’s objectives, how we help each other, and how we drive innovation.”
She sees the legal team as a partner to the business, one that helps shift perceptions and unlock possibilities. “To change the mindset around legal, you need to build strong relationships based on trust, effective communication, curiosity, and kindness,” she explains. “It’s about understanding each team’s objectives and roadblocks, anticipating risks, and staying open enough to ask the right questions.”
For Sefia, support and empathy are just as important as technical expertise. “Sometimes a eureka moment happens at the coffee machine,” she says. “Because you’re present, you’re listening, and you’re willing to connect.”
Her day-to-day is as varied as it is impactful. One moment she’s negotiating a commercial deal, the next she’s brainstorming with product and sales teams, or sitting on a committee discussing resilience and compliance. “There’s no room for being bored,” she laughs.
A career built on curiosity and bold moves
Sefia’s journey began in private practice before moving in-house, where she worked across biotechnology, licensing, and consulting. “I’ve always been drawn to fast-paced environments where innovation is at the heart of the company,” she explains. “Fintech was a natural next step – technology applied to reshape financial services.”
Her curiosity has been a constant driver. “I think being in-house is the art of the possible. From the first interaction of deals to product launch, you have a unique perspective in legal because you see every aspect of the business.”
She joined 10x as senior legal counsel and was recently promoted to head of legal. “It was a pivotal moment in my career,” she reflects. “It taught me the power of building strong relationships, being bold, and stepping outside my comfort zone.”
Collaboration at the core
At 10x, legal is deeply embedded in the business. “We engage early, whether it’s a commercial deal or a product initiative,” Sefia says. “We’re part of strategic decision-making, not just reactive support.”
She thrives on the cross-functional nature of the role. “I get to work with tech, sales, finance, product – each with their own language and priorities. You have to adjust your communication style, simplify complex legal matters, and solve problems creatively.”
“What I love about 10x is that you can wear multiple hats and that promotes a culture of collaboration. There's always an opportunity to step outside of the comfort zone.”
Leadership with empathy
As she has grown into a leadership role, Sefia has focused on developing a business mindset, resilience, and influence. “It’s about understanding the core of the business and enabling others to drive growth and purpose,” she says. “When your values align with the company’s, you find the drive to keep pushing forward.”
She also emphasizes the importance of mentorship and community. “There are great mentors and leaders at 10x. You learn from different styles, and it’s important to build a community that lifts you up.”
Championing women in tech and law
At 10x, there’s an amazing network of women and allies in financial services. We share a drive to improve visibility and lift each other up.
Sefia El Yaakoubi Head of Legal, 10x BankingBeing a woman in technology and law often means being the only woman in the room. “Visibility is key,” Sefia says. “At 10x, there’s an amazing network of women and allies in financial services. We share a drive to improve visibility and lift each other up.”
She takes her role seriously. “It’s essential to be audacious and compassionate, and to help other women rise. There’s room for a lot of talented women at 10x.”
Looking ahead
Sefia is excited about the future of financial services. “I’m excited about building products that enhance customer experience and make banking more inclusive,” she says. “Banking is for everyone, whether you’re a small farmer or a sophisticated business. It’s at the core of every society.”
She’s also curious about how AI will shape the industry. “I often wonder how AI and generative technology will transform our experience of banking,” she says. “About how we use it to build products that help us make better decisions and how we can give back to society.”
She believes the future of fintech must be inclusive. “We need to make people more tech-literate and ensure no part of society is left behind.”
Staying inspired
Outside of work, Sefia finds inspiration in unexpected places – including her screen. “It might sound cliche, but I love watching Suits,” she laughs. “Not just for the drama, but for the leadership lessons. The strong female characters challenge the status quo, make bold decisions, and lead with conviction. That’s something I really connect with.”
You can find out more about life at 10x on our careers page.
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