Consumer Lending VP Counsel

Citizens is seeking a driven, results‑focused attorney to join our Legal team in a dynamic, fast-paced environment supporting Consumer Deposits, Retail, Payments, and Digital functions. This role begins with close partnership alongside senior attorneys, with the expectation of developing into a key legal expert in designated areas. Citizens is a top‑fifteen U.S. consumer bank, offering long-term mobility and growth opportunities.

What You’ll Do

• Serve as a trusted legal advisor to consumer deposit, retail, payments, digital operations, customer service, and complaint resolution teams.
• Partner closely with senior attorneys, leadership, and cross-functional teams on new initiatives, escalated customer matters, and problem-solving.
• Research, analyze, and deliver clear legal advice on compliance and regulatory considerations for existing and emerging financial products.
• Support strategic planning, internal audits, regulatory examinations, contract interpretation/negotiation, and dispute resolution.
• Stay current on relevant laws, regulatory trends, and developments impacting areas of responsibility.

Required Skills & Capabilities

• Strong legal research and analysis skills across consumer financial regulations.
• Ability to communicate clearly, challenge the status quo appropriately, and provide business-friendly guidance.
• Strong judgment with the ability to navigate ambiguity and see matters through to completion.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to look beyond immediate issues.
• Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, evolving environment; calm under pressure.
• Highly collaborative, positive, and team-oriented.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in a law firm or in-house legal environment.
• Familiarity with: 
  • Reg DD, Reg CC, ECOA, FCRA, GLBA, E‑Sign, UDAAP
  • Regulation E, NACHA rules, ACH
  • Bank branch operations and payments processes

Education & Credentials

• Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent required.
• Admission to at least one U.S. state bar.
• Strong academic credentials.

Pay Transparency 

The salary range for this position is $140,000 - $160,000 per year, plus an opportunity to earn an annual discretionary bonus. Actual pay is based on various factors including but not limited to the work location, and relevant skills and experience.   

We offer competitive pay, comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, retirement benefits, maternity/paternity leave, flexible work arrangements, education reimbursement, wellness programs and more. Note, Citizens’ paid time off policy exceeds the mandatory, paid sick or paid time-away policy of every local and state jurisdiction in the United States. For an overview of our benefits, visit https://jobs.citizensbank.com/benefits.

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