Corporate Counsel

Overview

An organization operating at the intersection of automotive retail, fintech, and technology is seeking an experienced Corporate Counsel. This role involves navigating a complex and fast-moving regulatory landscape, providing strategic legal advice, and ensuring compliance as operations expand across multiple states. The position can be based in New York, California, or remote.

As the first member of the legal team, the attorney will have the opportunity to shape and grow the legal function within a fast-paced, innovative environment. The role includes working directly with the CEO and leadership team to proactively identify and address legal issues, manage licensing strategies, and coordinate with regulatory agencies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee a multi-state compliance strategy for automotive regulations, including dealer licensing and permitting requirements.
• Provide legal counsel to leadership on new products such as finance and insurance offerings, and on expansion into new markets.
• Represent the organization in discussions with regulators, state agencies, and licensing bodies.
• Collaborate with external counsel on complex legal matters while independently managing routine and day-to-day issues.
• Identify and address compliance risks proactively during product development and internal planning.
• Maintain and manage dealer licensure requirements to ensure all obligations are met.
• Establish scalable legal processes and frameworks to support future growth and expansion of the legal department.
• Offer guidance on sales and tax implications for automotive transactions across state lines.
• Utilize AI tools to enhance legal research, drafting, and operational efficiency.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of legal experience with a strong focus on automotive regulatory compliance, preferably in-house or within a relevant industry.
• In-depth knowledge of motor vehicle dealer licensing requirements across multiple states, including titling and registration workflows.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks governing finance and insurance products.
• Proven ability to advise in highly regulated states and manage interactions with state regulators and agencies.
• Expertise in brokering regulations, money transmission licensing, and compliance frameworks.
• Proficiency in leveraging AI tools for legal research, drafting, and decision-making.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to simplify complex legal concepts for business stakeholders.
• J.D. from an accredited U.S. law school and active licensure to practice law in at least one state.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive compensation package.
• Benefits available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, life, and disability insurance.
• Eligibility to enroll in a 401(k) plan for hired contract/temporary professionals.

Location

• New York, California, or remote within the United States.

Additional Information

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.