Professional Standards Counsel

Chartered Professional•Toronto, ON

3h•Hybrid

About The Position

As a Professional Standards Counsel, you will play a critical role in upholding the integrity of the profession. In this position, you will oversee and guide investigations, provide strategic legal advice to the Professional Conduct Committee, and prosecute complex disciplinary matters before the CPA Ontario Discipline and Appeal Committees and on judicial review. You may also prosecute matters involving misuse of the CPA designation under the Provincial Offences Act. This is a unique opportunity to apply your litigation expertise in a high-impact, purpose-driven role that directly contributes to maintaining public trust and professional ethical standards while maintaining a great work-life balance.

Requirements

An LL.B / J.D., membership in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario and be licensed to practice in Ontario.
A minimum of 15 years at the Bar with a strong track record in complex prosecution and / or litigation matters.
Demonstrated ability to independently lead sophisticated investigations and prosecutions from intake through resolution.
Experience with disciplinary proceedings involving self-regulating professions and/or with criminal prosecutions is highly valued.
Exceptional judgement and credibility, with highly developed interpersonal, advocacy and negotiation skills.
Proven ability to present persuasively to diverse audiences, including senior stakeholders, tribunals and the public.
Highly organized and strategic, with a track record of effectively managing competing priorities in a fast-paced, high-volume deadline-driven environments.
Digitally fluent with strong proficiency in Microsoft Office suite.
Experience with e-discovery platforms and leveraging technology to drive efficient legal practice is desirable.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing/leading teams is considered an asset.

Responsibilities

Prosecute matters before the Discipline and Appeal Committees and before the courts.
Appoint investigators on behalf of the Professional Conduct Committee.
Review investigator reports and provide supervision, direction and advice to in-house and external investigators.
Collaborate with internal teams on complex matters throughout the complaints process.
Be accountable to the Professional Conduct Committee and the SVP of Enforcement for decisions taken on an investigation or prosecution file.
Advise the Professional Conduct Committee and Enforcement team on legal issues.
Formulate and apply policies and strategies within the Enforcement team, impacting the Regulatory & Standards group and the CPA profession broadly.
Provide legal advice or other related work product to other departments within CPA Ontario.