Managing Director & Managing Counsel, SSGA Legal

Who we are looking for

The State Street Global Advisors Legal Department endeavors to provide strategic advice and counsel to its business and control colleagues in accordance with the highest standards of judgment, integrity and ethical leadership. We partner closely with these teams to find strategic solutions for our clients and contribute to the overall success of the firm. 

We are seeking an seasoned attorney with a proven ability to excel in a fast-paced, client-focused environment. In the role of Managing Director, you will be responsible for leading legal support, advice and counsel to SSGA’s Sustainable Investing and Asset Stewardship teams as well as working alongside a team of lawyers providing legal support to SSGA’s U.S. Institutional Product and Defined Contribution teams.  In addition, you will work with the General Counsel and Deputy General Counsel on projects involving strategic initiatives within the firm, including the development of new products and services.

To be successful, you will develop a deep understanding of the firm’s investment and operational capabilities, service offerings, culture and vision, regulatory and supervisory landscape in order to serve as a trusted advisor to your business and control partners, and efficiently identify, diagnose and help to address complex legal issues. You will need to build and maintain collaborative relationships with key internal teams, including management and senior executive business leaders, risk and compliance executives.

What you will be responsible for

As Managing Director and Managing Counsel  you will be responsible for providing practical and actionable legal advice and counsel with respect to SSGA’s sustainable investing, asset stewardship, and U.S. institutional product businesses.

This will include responsibility for:

• Leading the provision of legal and regulatory advice and support with respect to SSGA’s sustainable investing program globally;

• Leading the provision of legal and regulatory advice and support with respect to SSGA’s proxy voting and asset stewardship activities globally;

• Providing legal and regulatory advice and support with respect to SSGA’s US-domiciled common trust funds and collective investment trusts across a range of asset classes;

• Providing advice and support in connection with the development of new products and services;

• Negotiating and drafting agreements with strategic partners;

• Analyzing proposed and new regulatory developments impacting U.S. unregistered funds; and

• Providing advice and counsel to the SSGA business and compliance teams regarding ERISA, regulations affecting collective investment trusts and common trust funds, and Investment Advisers Act regulatory requirements related to SSGA’s institutional unregistered funds business

What we value

Required skills:

• Extensive knowledge of the global regulatory landscape related to sustainable investing and asset stewardship;

• Extensive knowledge of the laws and regulations governing collective investment funds and other unregistered funds;

• Familiarity with the Commodities Exchange Act and CFTC rules, NFA rules and FINRA rules applicable to US unregistered funds;

• A strong understanding of investment strategies and the U.S. unregistered funds business, particularly the offering and operation of collective investment trusts and private funds;

• The ability to evaluate legal, financial, regulatory and reputational risk and escalate to executive management as needed;

• Strong communication (written and verbal), client service and collaboration skills

• Strong research, time management, planning and organizational skills;

• Ability to work independently but also thrive in a global, dynamic and team-oriented environment; and

• Proven ability to interact with and advise multiple businesses and coordinate with legal colleagues in other jurisdictions and business areas on related areas of law or conflicts of law matters

Education & Preferred Qualifications

• 10- 15 years of experience in investment management legal practice at a law firm or the legal department of a financial services company, preferably both

• Strong academic credentials

• JD from an accredited law school

• License to practice in work location (this role is based in Boston, MA or Stamford, CT)

About State Street

What we do. State Street is one of the largest custodian banks, asset managers and asset intelligence companies in the world. From technology to product innovation we’re making our mark on the financial services industry. For more than two centuries, we’ve been helping our clients safeguard and steward the investments of millions of people. We provide investment servicing, data & analytics, investment research & trading and investment management to institutional clients.

Work, Live and Grow. We make all efforts to create a great work environment. Our benefits packages are competitive and comprehensive. Details vary in locations, but you may expect generous medical care, insurance and savings plans among other perks. You’ll have access to flexible Work Program to help you match your needs. And our wealth of development programs and educational support will help you reach your full potential.

Inclusion, Diversity and Social Responsibility. We truly believe our employees’ diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspective are a powerful contributor to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive and reach their maximum potential while adding value to both our organization and our clients. We warmly welcome the candidates of diverse origin, background, ability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and personality. Another fundamental value at State Street is active engagement with our communities around the world, both as a partner and a leader. You will have tools to help balance your professional and personal life, paid volunteer days, matching gift program and access to employee networks that help you stay connected to what matters to you.  State Street is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Discover more at StateStreet.com/careers

Salary Range:

The range quoted above applies to the role in the primary location specified. If the candidate would ultimately work outside of the primary location above, the applicable range could differ.

Job Application Disclosure:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

State Street's Speak Up Line