Director, Product Liability and Risk

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. • Towson, MD

21h • Hybrid

About The Position

As a Director, Product Liability and Risk, you will be a key member of the Corporate Legal Team, operating in a hybrid capacity with required onsite work at the Towson campus minimally three days a week. This role reports directly to the VP, Assistant General Counsel, and Head of Global Litigation. The Director, Safety Assurance is responsible for providing strategic leadership and comprehensive oversight of product liability claims and litigation, as well as governmental regulatory activities related to product safety across all product lines. You will lead and mentor a team of Safety Assurance Managers, working collaboratively with various cross-functional teams to establish company-wide product safety standards, drive continuous improvement, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations. The company is a global leader in tools and outdoor power equipment, with a portfolio of beloved brands including DEWALT®, BLACK+DECKER®, CRAFTSMAN®, STANLEY®, CUB CADET®, and HUSTLER®.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering
• 15+ years of progressive experience in engineering design, development, testing, quality, or manufacturing of power tools, hand tools, outdoor products, battery packs, chargers, small electrical appliances, or related products.
• Proven ability to lead, manage, and inspire teams.
• Demonstrated leadership in product safety, risk management, and regulatory compliance at a senior or executive level.
• Hands-on experience with a wide variety of company products and advanced knowledge of materials, fire cause and origin, forensic product inspection, standards, and compliance agency testing/approvals.
• Comprehensive understanding of company structure, operations, and product lines.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage large-scale safety initiatives.
• Willingness to travel as required.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s Degree or equivalent advanced education preferred

Responsibilities

• Manage and mentor the team of Safety Assurance Managers providing leadership, development, and performance management.
• Oversee and direct investigations into product safety issues, ensuring timely escalation and resolution of critical matters.
• Assist in the development and implementation of enterprise-wide product safety strategies, policies, and programs.
• As assigned, represent the company in applicable industry trade groups, standards committees, and governmental regulatory agencies.
• Provide executive guidance to corporate departments regarding product safety reviews, regulatory compliance, and corrective actions.
• Review and approve product manuals, packaging, warnings, and marketing materials for safety and regulatory compliance.
• Provide guidance on safety standards for product design, testing, and quality assurance, collaborating with corporate Engineering, Quality, and business units.
• Assist with ongoing compliance with national and international product safety regulations such as ISO, CE, UL, and industry-specific standards.
• Direct legal and claims/litigation support, including expert testimony, discovery responses, deposition, trial testimony, and strategic case development.
• Oversee and support product recalls, ensuring effective risk mitigation and stakeholder communication.
• Travel as required for accident/fire scenes, laboratory inspections, depositions, trial preparation, and industry representation.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Vision insurance
• Disability insurance
• 401(k)
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Paid time off (including paid vacation, holidays & personal days)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Programs & benefits in support of your well-being
• Discounts on Stanley Black & Decker tools and other partner programs
• Wellness program
• Retirement benefits
• Career opportunity with multiple career paths across 60+ brands
• Access to a wealth of state-of-the-art learning resources, including Lean Academy and online university
• Diverse & Inclusive Culture
• Purpose-Driven Company (through volunteerism, giving back, and sustainable business practices)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees