Director, Compliance and Legal

About Rigaku

Since 1951, Rigaku has led innovation in analytical and industrial instrumentation. Our technologies support advancements in materials science, life sciences, semiconductor research, and beyond. As part of a global group of companies, Rigaku Americas Holding, Inc. (RAH) supports operations across North and South America, contributing to global excellence in scientific instrumentation.

Job Summary

The Director of Compliance and Legal will play a key leadership role in guiding and executing Rigaku’s Americas Holding, Inc compliance and legal strategy. Reporting to the CEO of RAH and working closely with the General Counsel of Rigaku Holdings Corporation, this role is ideal for a high-performing corporate compliance or legal professional seeking an opportunity to step into a broader strategic function with enterprise-wide impact.

You will shape and lead the organization’s corporate compliance program, support internal controls, advise on legal and regulatory matters, and represent Rigaku Americas in interactions with external authorities. You will manage a small but agile team and collaborate across departments to maintain operational integrity, mitigate risk, and drive ethical excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Compliance Oversight

• Design and execute compliance strategies that align with Rigaku’s global operational goals and regulatory environment.

• Monitor legal, regulatory, and industry developments (e.g., anti-corruption, export controls, privacy, OSHA, ESG), and develop forward-looking strategies to ensure organizational compliance.

• Serve as the company’s representative during inspections and inquiries from external regulatory bodies.

• Lead compliance-related investigations and recommend corrective actions in cases of alleged misconduct.

Risk Management & Internal Controls

• Conduct internal audits and risk assessments; identify and address areas of actual or potential non-compliance.

• Collaborate with the Corporate Finance Team to support SOX compliance, safeguard assets, and ensure accurate financial reporting.

• Lead the development of internal control systems and performance metrics for compliance effectiveness.

Legal & Contractual Support

• Assist with legal review of contracts, business transactions, and operational decisions in collaboration with outside counsel.

• Manage legal relationships and coordinate with external law firms on disputes, compliance matters, and contract negotiations.

• Support documentation and governance processes across U.S. and international entities.

Team Leadership & Departmental Development

• Supervise compliance and legal team members (including export control specialists); support hiring, performance management, and professional development.

• Guide subordinate managers and influence broader departmental goals and KPIs.

• Partner with senior leadership to develop compliance objectives and help set strategic direction for legal and compliance functions.

Training & Policy Development

• Develop and deliver engaging training programs that promote a culture of compliance and ethical conduct across the company.

• Draft, implement, and maintain policies and procedures related to data privacy, cybersecurity, trade compliance, ESG, and other risk areas.

Experience & Education

• Bachelor's degree required; Juris Doctor (J.D.) or LL.M. preferred

• At least 10 years of relevant experience in legal, regulatory compliance, or risk management

• Equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience will also be considered.

• Prior people management or leadership experience required (managing individuals or teams)

• Industry experience in manufacturing, technology, or international operations preferred

Core Competencies

• Strategic thinking with strong decision-making skills

• Excellent oral and written communication capabilities

• Demonstrated leadership and team development abilities

• Strong ability to analyze complex problems and recommend solutions

• Comfort in collaborative, cross-functional environments

• Ability to balance attention to detail with a high-level view of enterprise risks

• Proactive, ethical, and integrity-driven mindset