Associate Counsel
Sydecar is on a mission to transform the world of private markets. Our goal is to make these markets more accessible, transparent, and liquid by revolutionizing the way investment vehicles are created and executed. At Sydecar, we're a trusted partner in venture capital, simplifying and standardizing the private investing experience. We empower capital allocators to discover and support visionary entrepreneurs while handling behind-the-scenes tasks like automating banking, ensuring compliance, managing contracts, taxes, and reporting. This allows investors to focus on making valuable deals and nurturing meaningful relationships.
About the Role
The core mission of the legal team is to manage risk at Sydecar, execute an ambitious product roadmap via legal innovation, and support internal clients on corporate governance, strategic initiatives, adopting best practices, and supporting our customers. This role spans legal research, thought leadership, and product innovation, with an opportunity to add value across all aspects of our operation. You will work closely with Sydecar’s CEO and Head of Product to ensure our suite of products and services adheres to federal, state, and international compliance while exploring creative methods to reduce friction for users. You'll report to the Head of Legal & Compliance and collaborate with existing counsel, with regular exposure to the CEO, VP of Customer Experience, Head of Product, VP of Finance, and Deputy Chief Compliance Officer.
Responsibilities
- Educate team members on legal best practices and maintain an easily referenceable knowledge base for internal and external stakeholders.
- Maintain best-in-class documentation, including customer and vendor agreements, and fund documentation supporting our products.
- Provide customer support as needed while ensuring legal guidance is directed only to Sydecar, not external stakeholders.
- Maintain all legal agreements, forms, and corporate records in an organized and searchable manner, noting deviations from standard agreements.
- Oversee contract negotiations with customers, partners, vendors, and other stakeholders; educate team members on leveraging Sydecar’s forms to create legal leverage.
- Provide expert legal advice to the executive team and other internal teams.
- Monitor changes in relevant laws and regulations and update internal processes and policies accordingly.
- Collaborate with external legal counsel to address complex legal matters and ensure optimal protection for the company.
- Manage legal risks and implement measures to mitigate potential issues.
- Stay up-to-date with legal and industry trends in fintech and venture investing to provide strategic guidance.
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and active membership in a relevant state bar association.
- 4–7 years of legal practice, with significant experience in Reg D and private fund securities work.
- Strong knowledge of securities laws, data privacy, contracts, and intellectual property.
- Experience negotiating and drafting complex commercial agreements.
- Familiarity with regulatory requirements and compliance frameworks for fintech startups.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a proactive approach to identifying solutions.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, rapidly changing startup environment and quickly adapt to new areas of law.
Skills
- Legal research and thought leadership
- Contract negotiation and drafting
- Regulatory compliance and risk management
- Strategic legal advice for fintech and venture investing
- Collaboration with cross-functional teams and external counsel
Values
- Be Committed: We rise to meet challenges and recognize that adversity strengthens us.
- Be Excellent: Success is measured not just by outcomes but by how we achieve them—through integrity, creativity, and continuous improvement.
- Be Humble: Humility drives personal and professional growth. We value ideas from all levels and prioritize collective outcomes over individual credit.
- Win Together: Winning is the result of hard work, perseverance, and passion. We support each other and go the extra mile for clients and teammates.
Pay
Compensation Range: $135,000 - $150,000