Head of Legal - Careers at Robert Half

Join Robert Half's prestigious network as the Head of Legal for a leading financial services organization in the heart of New York City. This executive-level position offers a unique opportunity to shape legal strategy, drive compliance, and lead a dynamic team in one of the world's most dynamic financial hubs. With a competitive salary starting at $200,000, this role is perfect for seasoned legal professionals seeking to make a significant impact in financial services legal leadership.

About the Role

As Head of Legal, you will serve as the chief legal officer, reporting directly to the C-suite and providing strategic counsel on high-stakes matters. Based in New York City, New York, United States, this full-time position demands expertise in navigating complex regulatory landscapes including SEC, FINRA, and Dodd-Frank regulations. You will foster a culture of compliance while partnering with executive leadership to align legal strategies with business objectives. This role is ideal for J.D. holders with extensive experience in financial services, offering the chance to mentor talent, mitigate risks, and drive organizational success in a high-profile environment.

Key Responsibilities

Your leadership will be pivotal across multiple domains:

• Deliver expert legal advice to executives on regulatory compliance, corporate governance, mergers & acquisitions, and complex contracts.
• Build and lead a high-performing legal department, providing mentorship to junior attorneys and paralegals while managing budgets and performance.
• Design and roll out robust legal policies, ensuring seamless adherence to federal, state, and international laws governing financial services.
• Proactively identify legal risks in business operations, transactions, and emerging fintech innovations, developing mitigation strategies.
• Oversee all aspects of contract lifecycle management, from drafting NDAs and vendor agreements to negotiating multimillion-dollar deals.
• Direct litigation strategies, coordinating with top-tier external counsel and representing the firm in regulatory inquiries and court proceedings.
• Implement comprehensive legal training programs to elevate company-wide compliance awareness and reduce liability exposure.
• Collaborate closely with HR on employment matters, Finance on SEC filings, and other departments to embed legal excellence across the organization.
• Monitor evolving legal landscapes, including ESG regulations, data privacy (NYDFS cybersecurity), and anti-money laundering rules, advising on proactive adaptations.

Required Qualifications

To excel in this role, candidates must possess:

• A Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school and active bar membership in New York State.
• 10+ years of relevant experience, with at least 5 years in financial services or highly regulated sectors.
• Demonstrated success leading legal teams in fast-paced environments.
• Expertise in financial regulations (SEC, FINRA, CFTC) and corporate law.
• Proven strategic advisory skills with C-level stakeholders.
• Strong negotiation prowess and experience with high-value contracts and litigation.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and analytical skills.
• Ability to thrive in New York City's competitive financial ecosystem.

Preferred qualifications include an MBA, prior in-house counsel experience at a financial institution, and familiarity with blockchain or digital asset regulations.

Why Join Us

Robert Half offers unparalleled opportunities for legal professionals. Benefit from our global network, accessing top-tier placements and career mobility. Enjoy a $200,000+ base salary, lucrative bonuses, comprehensive benefits including 401(k) matching, health coverage, and professional development funds. Work in a hybrid model in vibrant New York City, with perks like wellness programs and employee assistance. This Head of Legal role positions you at the forefront of financial services innovation, offering stability, growth, and prestige. Apply now to elevate your career with Robert Half—where legal excellence meets financial ambition. Keywords: Head of Legal jobs New York, financial services attorney, chief legal officer NYC, compliance officer roles NY.

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