Location: Hybrid - Kohler,
W
Opportunity
The Counsel – Litigation & Government Affairs is a business-oriented professional who has experience and capabilities to support and execute the Company’s Litigation and Government Affairs strategies. This role will manage complex litigation matters, including internal investigations and regulatory enforcement matters. The Counsel provides sound and effective business solutions through proactive and timely regulatory updates and strategic advice; and serves as a cross-functional partner with business leaders, internal and external counsel/consultants and corporate functions to act on key business initiatives. This role may also interact with local, state, and federal legislative bodies, government agencies, and trade organizations to protect the Company’s business interests and strategies. The Counsel is seen as a lead subject matter expert and proactive resource within the Legal Department.
The role requires strategic thinking, solid judgment, strong work ethic, the ability to excel in a fast-paced environment, and outstanding interpersonal skills. This position will be based in Kohler, WI, with occasional travel as needed. The role reports to the Sr. Legal Director – Litigation & Government Affairs based in Wisconsin. The Counsel – Litigation & Government Affairs will be asked to lead and/or support the areas defined below.
Key Responsibilities
Lead management of complex litigation docket, including product liability, auto liability, mass tort/asbestos liability, commercial, IP, employment, and regulatory litigation with oversight from the Sr. Legal Director – Litigation & Government Affairs.Develop and manage key litigation, product safety, and legal spend reports to Legal Department and business leaders to provide visibility and inform effective decision making.Provide legal counsel on regulatory matters to Kohler’s corporate functions and businesses, including general legal advice, product safety and consumer protection, antitrust and commercial matters, health and wellness regulation, environmental law, and others.Apply effective risk management techniques and offer proactive strategic advice on legal issues, bringing attention to implementing business solutions before problems occur.Research, identify, and evaluate risk factors and legal issues that could impact operations or business objectives.Communicate and negotiate with external parties (regulators, external counsel, consumer protection agencies, etc.), building trust and strong relationships.Manage litigation and regulatory related administrative duties, including service of process, litigation holds, law firm billing and reporting, and others. Research and monitor government activities that could affect the Company’s business, customers, and/or industry.Develop reporting of regulatory updates to business leaders that materially impact the Company’s interests and initiatives.Build and maintain professional relationships with members of local, state and federal, government entities and agencies.Serve on behalf of the Company on key trade associations and industry committees, seeking out key leadership roles.Collaborate with industry advocates to build areas of common interest that drive Company initiatives.Serve as a voice for the Company, either informally or formally, before government committees in support of the Company and/or industry.Support and/or introduce legislative and public policy changes that will support the Company’s business interests, operations, and initiatives.