Associate General Counsel

J  o  b    D  e  s  c  r  i  p  t  i  o  n

THE DETAILS

Job Code:

6523

Grade:

31S

Status:

Exempt

POSITION AND PURPOSE

Associate General Counsel is responsible for assisting the General Counsel in implementing strategic legal initiatives throughout the Credit Union. Associate General Counsel supports the General Counsel in providing executive management with effective advice on legal strategies and their implementation and assists in managing the legal functions of the Credit Union and overseeing the work of outside counsel, including handling litigation matters on behalf of the Credit Union.

WHO WE ARE

Golden 1 Credit Union is among the top credit unions in the country. As a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative, Golden 1 is guided by the credit union philosophy of “people helping people.” We are committed to empowering our members and uplifting our communities as we create a more equitable and financially inclusive California. We welcome all who embrace our Core Values.

WHO YOU ARE

You are a strategic, business-minded legal leader with deep expertise in financial services, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance.

You are a trusted advisor who provides practical, risk-based counsel, partners effectively across the organization, and helps drive business objectives while protecting the Credit Union’s interests.

Known for your collaborative approach, sound judgment, and ability to manage complex legal matters, you excel at translating legal and regulatory requirements into actionable business solutions while fostering a culture of integrity, accountability, and continuous growth.

THE WORK

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Provide legal counsel and guidance to business partners and management on legal, regulatory, governance, and compliance matters and issues of concern.

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Collaborate and partner with internal departments to provide timely, accurate, and practical support for their specific needs, which may include support for one or more of the following areas: Corporate Compliance, Retail, Consumer Lending, Business Services, Investment Services, Service Operations, Fraud, Vendor Management, IT/Information Security, Facilities, Human Resources, Marketing, and Community Relations.

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Maintain a thorough understanding of state and federal laws and regulations related to credit union compliance, including federal and state consumer compliance laws and regulations.

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Understand the Credit Union’s business and stay abreast of evolving products and services.

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Track and analyze pending and new changes in law and regulations and advise on impact to business practices as needed.

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Work collaboratively with internal stakeholders in the drafting, review, and negotiation of contracts with third parties, including vendors and business partners.

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Oversee litigation and manage outside counsel as necessary, including tactical guidance, case management, budgeting, and alignment with strategy.

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Ensure comprehensive and timely handling of legal process, including subpoenas.

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Advise on and negotiate resolution of pre-litigation disputes.

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Prepare regular written reports for the Board of Directors, committees, and senior management advising on status of significant matters and risks.

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Foster a positive and engaging work environment by promoting skill development, coaching for improvement and growth, inspiring others through words and actions, and embracing our mission, vision, and core values.

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Perform other duties as assigned by relevant executive leadership and management.

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Develop and maintain an understanding of the pertinent regulatory requirements and risks inherent to job responsibilities, establish, and maintain control activities that mitigate those risks consistent with the Credit Union’s risk appetite, and ensure operational integrity and compliance with applicable regulations.

QUALIFICATIONS

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JD from a law school accredited by the State Bar of California or the American Bar Association required

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3+ years practicing law, preferably with a national or large regional law firm required

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Preference for prior financial services experience and/or experience counseling a financial institution subject to examination and oversight by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau preferred

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Familiarity with consumer protection law, litigation, commercial contracting, and/or employment law also preferred

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Overall comprehensive legal knowledge (litigation, commercial law, employment law, and/or consumer compliance).

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Excellent judgment and analytical skills.

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Ability to anticipate legal issues or risks.

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Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and to adapt to changing priorities.

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Strong business acumen and interpersonal skills.

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Experience managing other attorneys, externs, and support staff.

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Active membership and good standing status with the State Bar of California required

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License to practice law in California via successful completion of the California Bar Examination or the California Attorney’s Examination required

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Strategic Alignment - Translates vision into actionable plans 

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Builds Strategic Partnerships - Fosters cross-functional collaboration 

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Influences & persuades - Gains buy-in for initiatives 

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Delivers Results with Adaptability - Executes effectively through change

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Cultivates Innovation and Decision Quality 

ORGANIZATIONAL CONTACTS AND RELATIONSHIPS

INTERNAL:

All levels of staff and management; Supervisory/Audit Committee.

EXTERNAL:

External counsel and consultants, regulators, external auditors, and law enforcement agencies.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work time includes weekend and after-hours time, based on organizational needs. This position works in-office where working conditions, lighting, temperature, audio, and workspace are all sufficient.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Work requires the ability to constantly operate a computer and the ability to read, type, and communicate. Work may require the ability to move work-related supplies weighing up to 10-15 pounds.

DISCLAIMER/INTENT AND FUNCTION OF JOB DESCRIPTIONS

The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by team members within this classification. Because the nature of positions and job functions can change over time, this job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all essential functions, duties, responsibilities and qualifications requirements of team members assigned to this job. Job duties may be changed or modified in the Credit Union’s discretion. The Credit Union will keep team members updated on key functions, duties, and requirements of their position by communications from the Credit Union and by updating the job description from time to time. Any team member with questions about the nature of their job duties is encouraged to consult with their supervisor.

DECLARATION/ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

This job description outlines the essential functions and physical/mental requirements necessary to perform this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.