Legal Counsel II

Ontario Securities Commission•Toronto, ON

About The Position

The Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) is the statutory body responsible for regulating Ontario’s capital markets. The mandate of the OSC is to provide protection to investors from unfair, improper or fraudulent practices, to foster fair, efficient and competitive capital markets and confidence in the capital markets, to foster capital formation, and to contribute to the stability of the financial system and the reduction of systemic risk. This mandate is performed through policy, operational, and enforcement activities. The OSC also contributes to national and global securities regulation development. We offer a diverse, fair, and flexible work environment and take pride in our challenging and rewarding work. The Registration, Inspections and Examinations (RIE) division oversees the dealers, advisers and investment fund managers that the public relies upon when investing in securities. Using a risk-based approach, RIE focuses on initial and ongoing registration and compliance examinations of registrants. The division consists of integrated, multi-disciplinary teams including professional staff (chartered professional accountants and lawyers), registration officers (corporate and individual), and support staff. RIE is currently hiring for a permanent, full-time Legal Counsel to join their team. This opportunity is considered to be a business-critical role supporting the Registration, Inspections and Examinations Division.

Requirements

A membership in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario.
A minimum of 5 years relevant securities/industry experience post call to the Bar
A strong understanding of the Canadian regulatory environment and securities legislation.
Demonstrated proficiency in balancing regulatory objectives with practical business considerations.
Demonstrated ability to analyze complex problems, research and seek out new information, analyze and anticipate obstacles and potential risks and develop appropriate recommendations.
Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to speak and write clearly, concisely and persuasively.
Excellent research and legal drafting skills.
Strong analytical skills allowing you to work independently and as part of a multi-disciplinary team of professionals.
Demonstrated ability to establish collaborative working relationships and engage with internal and external stakeholders.
Demonstrated ability to coordinate various aspects of projects and policies with appropriate staff within the organization.

Responsibilities

Work in a multi-disciplinary team and advise on the registration regime in National Instrument 31-103 Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations and related instruments.
Act as a legal resource on registration and compliance issues to other staff and industry participants.
Support other OSC divisions in policy initiatives affecting registrants.
Participate in compliance reviews of registrants to determine if they are in compliance with securities laws, and negotiate effectively with Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA), government, and stakeholders to reach a resolution on issues.
Assist with drafting timely guidance and risk alerts to the industry.