AVP, Broker-Dealer & Investment Advisor Counsel

Alternate locations: Radnor, PA; Charlotte, NC; Fort Wayne, IN; Greensboro, NC; Hartford, CT; Omaha, NE. Hybrid work arrangement: 3 days per week in a Lincoln office. Relocation assistance is not available for this opportunity.

About the Role

The AVP, Legal, Distribution Counsel will provide strategic legal counsel, regulatory guidance, and practical business support for distribution-related activities across Lincoln Financial Distributors. This role partners closely with Legal, Compliance, Operations, Enterprise Brand, Advertising and Marketing, Enterprise Producer Solutions Operations, and business leaders to support sales practices, third-party distribution relationships, regulatory initiatives, advertising review, and contractual matters tied to Lincoln’s financial products and services, including life insurance, annuities, long-term care products, small market retirement plans, and retail private market (alternative investment funds).

This role serves as a trusted legal advisor and subject-matter resource on regulatory requirements impacting broker-dealers, investment advisors, insurance agencies, and other distribution partners. Key areas of focus include FINRA, SEC, DOL, and state insurance requirements related to the distribution of life insurance, annuities, hybrid long-term care solutions, small market retirement plans, private markets, and other financial products.

Ideal for a legal professional who combines technical regulatory expertise with sound business judgment, collaborative partnership, and a practical approach to supporting growth in a highly regulated environment.

Responsibilities

• Maintains knowledge of current and emerging legal and regulatory developments impacting financial services distribution and assesses operational and business impacts.
• Advises VP, Chief Counsel Distribution and senior management on legal matters and complex issues within the LFD business, including business initiatives, third-party relationships, sales and incentive programs, FINRA, SEC, DOL, and state insurance laws and regulations.
• Supports implementation and interpretation of compliance policies, procedures, and business controls related to distribution activities.
• Drafts, reviews, and negotiates distribution agreements including revenue-sharing agreements, servicing agreements, selling agreements, and related legal documents.
• Assists business partners and internal stakeholders with legal review of sales programs, compensation arrangements, licensing, registration, and distribution initiatives.
• Supports responses to regulatory examinations, inquiries, investigations, and internal reviews.
• Collaborates with Compliance, Operations, Risk, and business teams on regulatory change management initiatives and process improvements.
• Provides legal support for operational and cross-functional projects affecting distribution and sales activities.
• Interprets and communicates legal and regulatory requirements to internal business partners in a practical and concise manner.
• Assists in identifying legal and regulatory risks and supports development of appropriate mitigation strategies.
• Participates in department and enterprise initiatives designed to improve operational efficiency and legal support processes.
• Maintains effective working relationships with internal stakeholders and external business partners.
• Supports development and delivery of legal and compliance-related training and educational materials.
• Collaborates with internal legal teams and outside counsel, as appropriate, on assigned matters.
• Keeps abreast of industry best practices and regulatory developments affecting financial products distribution and sales practices.
• Collaborates in team projects and contributes to achieving departmental objectives.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in law focused on financial services or insurance, or broker-dealer that directly aligns to the specific responsibilities for this role.
• 5+ years of experience with FINRA, SEC, DOL, and state insurance laws and regulations applicable to broker-dealers, investment advisors, insurance agents, and/or other financial services professionals.
• J.D. from an American Bar Association accredited law school and a member of a state Bar in good standing.
• Experience advising on FINRA, SEC, DOL, and state insurance laws and regulations applicable to financial services distribution.
• Experience reviewing and advising on contracts, policies, procedures, regulatory guidance, and related business practices.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to translate complex legal and regulatory topics into clear, practical guidance.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship management skills, with the ability to partner effectively across Legal, Compliance, Operations, and business teams.
• Ability to adapt quickly in a changing regulatory and business environment while maintaining sound judgment and attention to detail.

Benefits

• Clearly defined career tracks and job levels, along with associated behaviors for each of Lincoln's core values and leadership attributes.
• Leadership development and virtual training opportunities.
• PTO/parental leave.
• Competitive 401K and employee benefits.
• Free financial counseling, health coaching, and employee assistance program.
• Tuition assistance program.
• Flexible work arrangements.
• Effective productivity/technology tools and training.
• Eligibility for the Annual Incentive Program, which is discretionary and based on the performance of the company, business unit, and individual.
• Other rewards may include long-term incentives, sales incentives, and Lincoln’s standard benefits package.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $127,500 - $232,300, with anticipated pay for new hires between the minimum and midpoint of the range. Pay is based on non-discriminatory factors including but not limited to work experience, education, location, licensure requirements, proficiency, and qualifications required for the role. The base pay is one component of Lincoln’s total rewards package for employees.