Corporate Counsel - Franchise

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Work closely with executives and managers to achieve objectives related to the dealer network. Provide advice on dealer franchise law, and review and develop company policies related to network planning, dealer sales performance, dealer financial performance, dealer establishment, dealership transfers, dealership facility requirements, sales incentives, marketing, service and warranty operations, distribution, and customer service.
• Aid in the drafting of policy documents, letters, dealer agreements, and dealership performance reviews.
• Manage litigation, including risk assessment, case strategy, settlement, budgeting, discovery, and other case management activities. Handle claims and defenses related to dealer add points, protests, terminations, bankruptcies, audits, etc.
• Proactively address other legal matters as needed and collaborate with colleagues as appropriate.
• Advise and train managers in various departments of the company regarding dealer operations and legal issues.

Qualifications/Education

• Juris Doctor from a top-tier ABA-accredited law school preferred
• Experience from a top-tier law firm preferred
• Admitted to California State Bar

Job Requirement

• 7-10 years top-tier law firm or in-house experience preferred
• Experience in automotive industry is helpful
• Direct experience in dealer franchise law is helpful but not required; Kia may provide substantive business and legal training for the appropriate candidate
• Both transactional and litigation background is helpful

Specialized Skills and Knowledge Required

• Demonstrate managerial, organizational, and excellent interpersonal communication (verbal and written) skills, particularly in high-pressure situations
• Create timely and insightful executive reports and analysis; outstanding writing and editing skills
• Mastery of standard office software (Microsoft Office) and ability to learn other company software systems as needed and as technology develops
• Work collaboratively and cross-functionally with other in-house counsel team members in other legal areas to identify and resolve legal issues