Struggling Blackberry-maker Research In Motion Ltd. is losing another senior executive, as its chief legal officer is retiring from the company after 12 years.

RIM said Monday that Karima Bawa had been in discussions about her retirement for some time and plans to stay on to help with the transition once a replacement has been hired.

The departure comes amid reports that RIM may announce a major restructuring that could result in thousands of job cuts.

It also follows the departure last week of Patrick Spence, RIM's head of global sales. A number of executives left earlier this year, including founder Mike Lazaridis and co-chief executive Jim Balsillie. Lazaridis remains on the board.

Thorsten Heins became RIM's chief executive in January after RIM lost tens of billions in market value.