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Startup Founder Employment Agreement Template for United Arab Emirates

A comprehensive legal agreement governed by UAE law that establishes and regulates the employment relationship between a startup company and its founder(s). This document combines traditional employment terms with specific provisions related to the founder's unique position, including equity arrangements, intellectual property rights, and special responsibilities. It ensures compliance with UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 (UAE Labor Law) while addressing the specific needs of startup enterprises, including provisions for both mainland UAE and free zone jurisdictions. The agreement covers essential aspects such as duties, compensation, equity vesting, IP protection, and non-compete obligations within the UAE legal framework.

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What is a Startup Founder Employment Agreement?

The Startup Founder Employment Agreement is a crucial document used when formalizing the relationship between a startup company and its founder(s) in the United Arab Emirates. It serves as both an employment contract and a founder's agreement, ensuring compliance with UAE labor laws while protecting the interests of all parties involved. This document is typically implemented during company formation or when transitioning from an informal to a formal business structure. It includes detailed provisions on employment terms, equity arrangements, intellectual property rights, confidentiality obligations, and non-compete restrictions, all tailored to meet UAE legal requirements. The agreement is particularly important in the UAE's growing startup ecosystem, where clear founder relationships and protection of company interests are essential for attracting investment and ensuring smooth business operations.

What sections should be included in a Startup Founder Employment Agreement?

1. Parties: Identification of the company and the founder-employee

2. Background: Context of the agreement, including company formation and founder's role

3. Definitions: Key terms used throughout the agreement

4. Appointment and Term: Position, effective date, and term of employment

5. Duties and Responsibilities: Founder's role, obligations, and performance expectations

6. Time Commitment: Working hours and commitment expectations

7. Remuneration: Salary, benefits, and other compensation

8. Equity Arrangements: Share ownership, vesting schedule, and related terms

9. Intellectual Property: Assignment and protection of IP rights

10. Confidentiality: Protection of company confidential information

11. Non-Competition: Restrictions on competitive activities as per UAE law

12. Non-Solicitation: Restrictions on soliciting employees, customers, or suppliers

13. Termination: Grounds and process for termination

14. Post-Termination Obligations: Continuing obligations after employment ends

15. General Provisions: Standard legal clauses including governing law, notices, etc.

What sections are optional to include in a Startup Founder Employment Agreement?

1. Board Position: Terms of board membership, if founder will serve on board

2. Investment Obligations: If founder is required to make capital contributions

3. International Travel: If role requires significant international travel

4. Succession Planning: Process for transitioning leadership, if needed

5. Good Leaver/Bad Leaver: Specific provisions affecting equity in different exit scenarios

6. Shareholder Rights: Special voting or veto rights as a founder

7. Alternative Dispute Resolution: Specific dispute resolution procedures for founder disputes

8. External Activities: Terms for managing other business interests or board positions

What schedules should be included in a Startup Founder Employment Agreement?

1. Schedule 1 - Position Description: Detailed outline of founder's role and responsibilities

2. Schedule 2 - Remuneration Package: Detailed breakdown of salary, benefits, and bonus structure

3. Schedule 3 - Equity Vesting Terms: Detailed vesting schedule and conditions

4. Schedule 4 - IP Assignment: Comprehensive list of IP being assigned to company

5. Schedule 5 - Restricted Activities: Detailed list of prohibited competitive activities

6. Schedule 6 - Company Policies: Key company policies applicable to the founder

7. Appendix A - Share Option Agreement: Detailed terms of any share options granted

8. Appendix B - KPIs and Performance Metrics: Specific performance expectations and measurements

Authors

Alex Denne

Head of Growth (Open Source Law) @ Ƶ | 3 x UCL-Certified in Contract Law & Drafting | 4+ Years Managing 1M+ Legal Documents

Publisher

Ƶ

Document Type

Founders Agreement

Cost

Free to use

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