Special Counsel, Payments

Overview

A leading internet financial platform company is seeking a Senior Counsel, Payments to provide legal advice and strategic partnership supporting payments initiatives. The role involves guiding the design, launch, and operation of innovative payments products while ensuring compliance with global financial regulations.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a key legal partner to Product, Compliance, and Engineering teams developing new payments-related offerings.
• Act as a strategic legal advisor to help develop and scale processes for launching payments products and programs globally.
• Advise on product expansion into new jurisdictions by assessing licensing and regulatory requirements.
• Provide practical legal guidance on global payments regulations, including licensing, consumer protection, AML, and financial reporting.
• Review payments-related marketing materials and external communications for legal compliance.

Requirements

• J.D. or equivalent degree with admission to practice law in the United States; member in good standing of at least one U.S. state bar.
• Minimum 7 years of legal experience, including significant advising on payments, blockchain, and financial services.
• Deep understanding of U.S. federal and state payments laws, including money transmission, AML/BSA, and consumer protection regulations.
• Experience advising product and engineering teams on legal requirements related to payment network design, custody, money transmission, or payment instruments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting global product launches and navigating regulatory and compliance issues.
• Strong familiarity with financial institution partnerships, including global banking institutions.
• Proven ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with cross-functional teams in fast-paced, technology-driven environments.
• Background in fintech, cryptocurrency, or other emerging financial technologies.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base pay range: $200,000 - $262,500
• Compensation is determined by factors including experience, skills, qualifications, and organizational needs.
• Equal opportunity employer committed to non-discrimination based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or other protected statuses.
• Accommodations are available during the interview process for candidates with disabilities.

Location

• The role supports global payments initiatives and may involve work across multiple jurisdictions.