Vice President & Chief Counsel, Retail Advisory

Ameriprise • Minneapolis, MN

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

Serve as the senior legal advisor and strategic partner to executive leadership for the Retail Advisory business. Shape legal strategies across managed accounts, financial planning, investment research and portfolio management, while supporting business growth, innovation and effective risk management. In this officer-level role, influence significant business initiatives and acquisitions, strengthen governance and compliance, and lead a team of solutions-oriented legal professionals. Apply deep investment advisory expertise and sound judgment to decisions that advance the business and serve clients.

The role is based on an in-office collaboration model: employees work in the office at least four days per week and may work from home one day per week. Some roles may have additional or different in-office expectations, which will be discussed during hiring. Applicants must have U.S. work authorization that will not require visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Requirements

• At least 10 years of legal experience supporting investment advisory, wealth management or other financial services businesses.
• Deep expertise in the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and state and other regulatory requirements applicable to retail advisory offerings.
• Significant experience advising executive leadership on strategic business decisions and leading attorneys and legal professionals.
• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to practice law in Minnesota, Massachusetts or North Carolina, or eligibility for admission as in-house counsel.
• Demonstrated ability to lead large, cross-functional initiatives and build high-performing legal teams.
• Strong business acumen, executive presence, communication, relationship management, collaboration and influencing skills.
• Valid U.S. work authorization that does not now or in the future require visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• 15 or more years of relevant legal experience.
• Expertise in Regulation Best Interest and Employee Retirement Income Security Act regulations applicable to retail offerings.

Responsibilities

• Lead legal support for the Retail Advisory business, including managed accounts, financial planning, investment research and portfolio management.
• Advise executive leadership on business priorities, significant initiatives and acquisitions involving retail advisory solutions.
• Develop and execute legal strategies that enable responsible growth, innovation and effective risk management.
• Partner with senior stakeholders to strengthen governance, promote sound risk management and reinforce a strong culture of compliance.
• Interpret emerging legal, regulatory and industry developments and provide practical guidance on their business implications.
• Lead, develop and inspire a high-performing team of attorneys and legal professionals who act as solutions-oriented business partners.

Benefits

• Vacation time
• Sick time
• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Variable pay may be available in the form of bonuses, commissions and/or long-term incentives, depending on the role.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree