Associate General Counsel

Golden 1 Credit Union; Sacramento (CA); On-site; USD 186,700 - 215,000; Full time

Job summary

Golden 1 Credit Union is seeking an Associate General Counsel to lead strategic legal affairs. You will provide practical, risk-based advice across business functions, focusing on third-party contracts, facilities matters, information security, and governance.

Responsibilities include drafting and negotiating contracts, overseeing litigation, and reporting to the Board. A California JD with at least three years of practice is required, preferably with financial services experience.

Qualifications

• JD from a law school accredited by the State Bar of California or the ABA.
• 3+ years practicing law, preferably with a national or large regional law firm.
• Preference for financial services experience and/or CFPB familiarity.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal counsel on regulatory, governance and compliance matters for the credit union.
• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts with vendors and business partners.
• Oversee litigation and manage outside counsel, budgeting, and strategy alignment.
• Prepare regular written reports for the Board of Directors and senior management.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Contract negotiation

Regulatory compliance

Information security awareness

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Tools

Job description

Job Title: Associate General Counsel

Status: Exempt

Reports to: VP - Deputy General Counsel

Department: Legal

Job Code: 6523

Pay Range: $186,700.00 - $215,000.00 Annually

WHO WE ARE:

Golden 1 Credit Union is among the top credit unions in the country. As a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative, Golden 1 is guided by the credit union philosophy of “people helping people.” We are committed to empowering our members and uplifting our communities as we create a more equitable and financially inclusive California. We welcome all who embrace our Core Values.

WHO YOU ARE:

You are a strategic, business-minded legal leader with deep expertise in financial services, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance. You are a trusted advisor who provides practical, risk-based counsel, partners effectively across the organization, and helps drive business objectives while protecting the Credit Union’s interests. Known for your collaborative approach, sound judgment, and ability to manage complex legal matters, you excel at translating legal and regulatory requirements into actionable business solutions while fostering a culture of integrity, accountability, and continuous growth.

We are seeking an Associate General Counsel to provide practical, risk-based legal advice across a broad range of business functions. The position's primary areas of focus will be third-party and vendor contracts, leases and facilities-related matters, and information security, privacy, and incident response. Additional responsibilities will be aligned with the successful candidate’s background, expertise, and the evolving needs of the organization.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

Provide legal counsel and guidance to business partners and management on legal, regulatory, governance, and compliance matters and issues of concern. Collaborate and partner with internal departments to provide timely, accurate, and practical support for their specific needs, which may include support for one or more of the following areas: Corporate Compliance, Retail, Consumer Lending, Business Services, Investment Services, Service Operations, Fraud, Vendor Management, IT/Information Security, Facilities, Human Resources, Marketing, and Community Relations. Maintain a thorough understanding of state and federal laws and regulations related to credit union compliance, including federal and state consumer compliance laws and regulations. Understand the Credit Union’s business and stay abreast of evolving products and services. Track and analyze pending and new changes in law and regulations and advise on impact to business practices as needed. Work collaboratively with internal stakeholders in the drafting, review, and negotiation of contracts with third parties, including vendors and business partners. Oversee litigation and manage outside counsel as necessary, including tactical guidance, case management, budgeting, and alignment with strategy. Ensure comprehensive and timely handling of legal process, including subpoenas. Advise on and negotiate resolution of pre-litigation disputes. Prepare regular written reports for the Board of Directors, committees, and senior management advising on status of significant matters and risks. Foster a positive and engaging work environment by promoting skill development, coaching for improvement and growth, inspiring others through words and actions, and embracing our mission, vision, and core values. Perform other duties as assigned by relevant executive leadership and management.

QUALIFICATIONS AND PREFERENCES:

• JD from a law school accredited by the State Bar of California or the American Bar Association required
• 3+ years practicing law, preferably with a national or large regional law firm required
• Preference for prior financial services experience and/or experience counseling a financial institution subject to examination and oversight by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau preferred
• Familiarity with consumer protection law, litigation, commercial contracting, and/or employment law also preferred

WHY JOIN US:

Golden 1 Credit Union provides its employees a market-competitive and internally equitable total rewards compensation package through a variety of programs. These programs are designed to attract, motivate, and retain employees that drive and support the achievement of Our Mission, Vision, and Strategic Goals. The Credit Union is committed a total rewards philosophy built on; a comprehensive compensation package, well-being and work-life balance, career development and growth, rewards and recognition, and a commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. We believe in fostering a workplace where every employee is recognized, valued, and motivated to contribute their best.

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