AVP, Corporate Counsel, Product & Distribution

Overview

The Assistant Vice President-Corporate Counsel, Product & Distribution will provide expert legal advice and support related to the development and distribution of new annuity and life insurance products. This role involves representing the Legal & Compliance Department as part of a cross-functional Product Development & Implementation Team. Additionally, the position supports legal matters concerning in-force blocks of annuity and life insurance products. The individual will identify and assess potential legal risks in complex business situations and develop risk management recommendations.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal review and support for policy forms, administrative forms, product illustrations, licensing agreements, and operational guidelines for products in development.
• Ensure compliance with insurance regulations regarding products, marketing, and operations, including contract provisions, suitability, replacements, and sales practices.
• Attend business partner meetings to understand business processes and collaborate with the Product Development & Implementation Team to meet product launch deadlines.
• Offer timely legal advice related to the expansion of the product distribution network and work closely with the Distribution Team to draft and negotiate selling agreements for independent, bank, and broker-dealer channels.
• Identify and assess potential legal risks, develop risk management and mitigation recommendations, draft legal documents, and provide conclusions and recommendations.
• Regularly interact with the Deputy General Counsel on legal matters related to products and distribution and support the compliance team within the Legal & Compliance Department.
• Collaborate with the General Counsel, attorneys, and compliance professionals on special projects and regulatory responses.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) or equivalent law degree and bar admission.
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in a law firm, insurance company, or financial services institution.
• At least 5 years of progressive experience specifically with annuities and life insurance products.
• Experience working closely with Distribution, Actuarial, Product Filing, and Operational teams.
• Strategic planning skills with the ability to organize and deliver results involving managing or influencing others.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, capable of providing clear and concise messaging, especially to executive-level audiences.

Location

Preferred locations are New York or Texas. Remote work may be considered in certain situations.