Associate Corporate Counsel

About the Department

The Legal team provides practical legal advice and service to the broader organization by reviewing and analyzing the laws and regulations of the legal jurisdictions in which Franklin Templeton operates. Our in-house corporate attorneys interpret these laws and regulations and advise the business on actions required to comply with legal and regulatory obligations. They also guide the business on appropriate courses of action to minimize risk from financial or reputational loss.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and strategic counsel to Franklin Templeton funds, investment advisers, and senior management teams on regulatory matters arising under the Investment Advisers Act and other applicable securities laws and regulations.
• Partner closely with investment, distribution, operations, and risk teams to assess legal and regulatory implications of business activities, ensuring compliance with evolving industry requirements and regulatory expectations.
• Interpret and advise on complex regulatory developments impacting the management, operation, and distribution of investment advisory services across multiple jurisdictions and product structures.
• Support the development, launch, and ongoing management of investment products and fund offerings, providing legal guidance throughout the product lifecycle from concept through implementation.
• Lead and contribute to strategic business initiatives, including digital advice programs, technology-driven solutions, and other transformational projects designed to enhance client experience and business growth.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external counsel to deliver practical, risk-based legal solutions that support commercial objectives while maintaining strong governance, regulatory compliance, and investor protection standards.

Requirements

• JD and license to practice law in the U.S. (with state bar membership or certification as Registered In-House Counsel).
• 4+ years’ experience in the U.S. investment management area with the SEC, a law firm, an investment management firm, or an industry trade group.
• Knowledge and experience with laws and regulations under the Investment Advisers Act and SEC/CFTC laws and regulations.
• An understanding of the financial regulatory and policy issues associated with the investment management business.
• A self-directed individual with a high degree of attention to detail, ability to multi-task and prioritize, and effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain collaborative working relationships with other members of the FT legal team, FT compliance, FT management, the staff of the SEC and other regulators, and the staff of industry trade groups.

Pay

We expect the annual salary for this position to range between $155,000 - $183,500, depending on location and level of relevant experience, plus discretionary bonus.

Benefits

• Paid Time Off: Three weeks of PTO in your first year, plus holidays, sick leave, parental & caregiving leave, bereavement, volunteering, and floating holidays.
• Health Coverage: Competitive medical, dental, and vision insurance to support your well-being.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with an 85% company match on pre-tax and/or Roth contributions, up to IRS limits.
• Equity & Investing: Employee Stock Investment Plan (ESIP) with discounted share purchase opportunities.
• Learning & Development: Education Assistance Program (LEAP) to support ongoing growth and career advancement, including reimbursement for certain education expenses.
• Employee Investment Benefits: Opportunity to purchase company funds with no sales charge.
• Wellbeing Program: Motivational wellbeing program.