Manager - Legal Program Team

American Express•New York, NY

27d

About The Position

At American Express, our culture is built on a 175-year history of innovation, shared values and Leadership Behaviors, and an unwavering commitment to back our customers, communities, and colleagues. As part of Team Amex, you'll experience this powerful backing with comprehensive support for your holistic well-being and many opportunities to learn new skills, develop as a leader, and grow your career. Here, your voice and ideas matter, your work makes an impact, and together, you will help us define the future of American Express. About the Role The legal industry is evolving - and so are we. The Global Counsel's Organization (GCO) in American Express is transforming how legal teams deliver value through technology, innovation, and operational excellence. As the Manager - Legal Program Team, you'll play a pivotal role in strengthening our global legal governance and risk management frameworks. You'll combine legal, compliance and operational expertise with program management and data-driven insights to drive compliance, efficiency, and innovation across key enterprise programs that shape the future of our business.

Requirements

JD and admission to practice law in the United States, or equivalent qualification in compliance, risk, or legal governance.
5+ years of experience in legal, compliance, risk management, or program management roles within financial services or technology sectors.
Proven ability to manage complex projects, build consensus, and deliver results in a dynamic, cross-functional environment.
Proficiency in data analysis, reporting, and visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
Experience using legal technology and AI tools to enhance service delivery.
Strong executive presence, interpersonal skills, and ability to influence at all levels.
Excellent oral and written communication skills, with a focus on clarity and business impact.
Demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Accountable and collaborative team player who builds positive relationships globally.
Strategic thinker with a growth mindset and adaptability in a changing environment.
Problem-solving abilities, with a resourceful, can-do attitude.
Enthusiastic about technology, innovation, and process improvement.
Highly organized, proactive, and comfortable working independently with minimal supervision.

Responsibilities

Lead day-to-day operations and transformation for GCO in connection with core Enterprise frameworks, including Regulatory Change Management, Global Legal Inventory, Records Management, and New Product Governance.
Oversee governance documentation, policy alignment, and ongoing program enhancements.
Partner with Compliance, Technology, Control Management, and other functions to ensure consistent and compliant execution of enterprise frameworks.
Identify and implement process improvements using technology, automation, and generative AI.
Drive continuous improvement of legal service delivery models, including workflow optimization and knowledge management tools.
Lead initiatives to simplify and modernize legal processes and platforms.
Serve as a trusted partner to legal colleagues and business stakeholders, providing proactive, business-oriented solutions.
Coordinate and deliver training, documentation, and communications to ensure awareness and adherence to key programs.
Build strong partnerships across global teams to promote alignment, consistency, and knowledge sharing.
Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure program effectiveness.
Present insights to senior management and influence decisions.
Partner with internal audit and risk functions to ensure controls and compliance are monitored effectively.
Lead and coach a Legal Analyst and other team members, fostering professional growth and excellence.
Cultivate a collaborative, inclusive team culture focused on accountability and innovation.

Benefits

Competitive base salaries
Bonus incentives
6% Company Match on retirement savings plan
Free financial coaching and financial well-being support
Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability benefits
Flexible working model with hybrid, onsite or virtual arrangements depending on role and business need
20+ weeks paid parental leave for all parents, regardless of gender, offered for pregnancy, adoption or surrogacy
Free access to global on-site wellness centers staffed with nurses and doctors (depending on location)
Free and confidential counseling support through our Healthy Minds program
Career development and training opportunities