Senior Counsel, Registered Funds & Regulatory Strategy

Vanguard; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 160,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanguard is seeking a talented attorney to join the Office of the General Counsel to provide legal advice on matters related to the Investment Company Act of 1940. You will counsel on fund formation, governance, compliance, and strategic initiatives, partnering with business leaders to shape products and initiatives for investors.

The role requires a JD and admission to practice, with at least four years of relevant experience, strong drafting and negotiation skills, and the ability to

Qualifications

• Minimum four years related legal work experience with a focus on the Investment Company Act of 1940.
• Law degree (JD) required; admission to practice in relevant jurisdiction.
• Strong working knowledge of SEC regulations, fund governance, disclosure obligations, and investment adviser compliance.
• Familiarity with BDCs, closed-end funds (tender offer and interval funds) preferred.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Ability to communicate complex regulatory concepts clearly to business partners.

Responsibilities

• Advise on the Investment Company Act of 1940 and related rules and regulations impacting Vanguard’s registered funds, business activities, investment product development, transactions, and regulatory matters.
• Draft and negotiate legal documents such as registration statements, shareholder communications, regulatory filings, advisory agreements, and other fund-related documents.
• Monitor, analyze, and respond to legislative and regulatory developments related to Vanguard's business activities and investment products to assess impact and implement updates.
• Represent Vanguard’s interests with third parties, including government agencies such as the SEC.
• Direct and manage outside counsel on complex fund-related matters.
• Maintain deep expertise in registered funds, regulatory law, Vanguard’s business and products, and industry best practices; stay current on SEC guidance, rulemaking, and enforcement trends.
• Mentor junior attorneys and legal staff and contribute to a collaborative team environment.
• Participate in special projects and perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Investment Company Act of 1940

SEC regulations

Fund governance

Regulatory compliance

Drafting & Negotiation

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Bar admission in relevant jurisdiction

Undergraduate degree or equivalent

Job description

Vanguard is seeking a talented attorney to join the Office of the General Counsel to provide legal advice on matters related to the Investment Company Act of 1940. You will counsel on fund formation, governance, compliance, and strategic initiatives, partnering with business leaders to shape products and initiatives for investors.

The role requires a JD and admission to practice, with at least four years of relevant experience, strong drafting and negotiation skills, and the ability to