Associate Counsel

How You'll Contribute:
As an Associate Counsel, you will be responsible for providing proactive legal support across the company, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations while supporting strategic initiatives. This role will work closely with cross-functional teams, outside counsel, and regulatory bodies to ensure thoughtful, ethical, and compliant business operations. We are looking for candidates who are passionate about the insurance and financial services industry and bring legal expertise, strong communication skills, and a collaborative spirit to the team.

About Us:
EquiTrust Life Insurance Company is a national carrier of competitive, client-friendly annuity products sold through a variety of distribution channels, including more than 20,000 independent agents and independent marketing organizations (IMOs). Since 2003, we have provided exceptional customer service to our clients by operating with integrity and passion. Our efforts are supported by a dedicated workforce who execute their responsibilities through teamwork and an entrepreneurial spirit. EquiTrust sells products nationwide and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with operations in West Des Moines, Iowa.

Position Summary:
The Associate Counsel will provide legal support for the company, ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and industry best practices. This role will assist in developing and implementing compliance programs, drafting and negotiating contracts, managing regulatory requirements, and coordinating with both internal and external stakeholders, including regulators and outside counsel. The Associate Counsel will work cross-functionally to provide legal guidance across departments, support corporate initiatives and due diligence efforts, and help mitigate legal risks.

What You’ll Do:

• Serve as a cross-functional legal advisor supporting corporate initiatives and helping mitigate legal risks.

• Provide strategic and technical support in litigation, including discovery, document review, and trial preparation.

• Develop and implement compliance programs, assist with internal policies and training.

• Collaborate with external stakeholders and manage counterparty agreements.

• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, NDAs, and other corporate documents.

• Support regulatory filings and corporate governance documentation.

• Conduct legal due diligence on external partnerships.

• Advise business partners on general legal matters and industry-specific compliance.

• Coordinate with regulators and respond to examination-related requests.

• Contribute to a collaborative, inclusive team culture that reflects the organization's values.

What You'll Bring:

Education:

• Juris Doctor required.
• Active license to practice law in any state required.

Experience:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in attorney or compliance role(s) from a law firm, financial institution, broker/dealer, or insurance company.
• Understanding and knowledge of index annuity and life insurance products and distribution required.
• 2 years of life and annuity experience preferred.
• 4 years of experience in a compliance or legal role at an insurance company or banking/financial institution preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of contract terms, insurance, and financial institution regulations.

• Familiarity with IMO, broker/dealer, and bank distribution channels.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including negotiation.

• Analytical and research capabilities, with an ability to clearly summarize legal findings.

• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time-management skills.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Where You’ll Work: 

• West Des Moines, IA
• Office Location: Mostly Off-Site 
• Expected Travel: Travel not likely/required.

EquiTrust is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the U.S. Federal E-Verify program. Applicants have rights under federal and state employment laws. To learn more, visit EquiTrust Careers. 

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