In-House Counsel - Dealer Network

About the Role Provide legal guidance to Kia America to enhance dealer network performance across the United States. Develop policies on dealer establishment, transfers, termination and wind-down, and oversee dealership operations including sales, distribution, service, facility improvements, branding and marketing. Collaborate with in-house lawyers and outside counsel, assess legal risks, and advise leadership to advance business objectives. What You'll Do

• Provide legal counsel to executives and managers to achieve objectives related to Kia's dealer network, including guidance on dealer franchise law and development of policies on network planning, dealer sales and financial performance, establishment, transfers, facility requirements, incentives, marketing, service and warranty operations, distribution, and customer service.
• Assist with drafting policy documents, letters, dealer agreements, and dealership performance reviews.
• Manage litigation and risk, including case strategy, settlements, budgeting, discovery, and other case management; handle claims/defenses related to dealer add points, protests, terminations, bankruptcies, audits.
• Proactively address other legal matters and collaborate with colleagues as needed.
• Advise and train managers across departments on dealer operations and legal issues. What We're Looking For
• Juris Doctor from a top-tier ABA-accredited law school (preferred).
• Experience from a top-tier law firm (preferred).
• Admitted to the California State Bar.
• 7-10 years of top-tier law firm or in-house experience (preferred).
• Experience in the automotive industry is helpful.
• Direct experience in dealer franchise law is helpful but not required; Kia provides substantive business and legal training for the appropriate candidate.
• Both transactional and litigation background is helpful.
• Specialized Skills: managerial, organizational, and excellent interpersonal communication (verbal and written) skills, especially in high-pressure situations; ability to create timely executive reports and analyses; outstanding writing and editing skills; proficiency with Microsoft Office and ability to learn company software; ability to work cross-functionally with in-house counsel and other teams. Nice to Have
• Direct experience in dealer franchise law (helpful).
• Automotive industry experience (helpful). Compensation & Benefits
• Pay Range: USD 177,401 - 257,195 per year.
• Benefits include premium paid medical, dental and vision coverage for you and dependents, 401(k) plan with 100% match up to 6% of salary deferral, and paid time off. Kia also offers company lease and purchase programs, company-wide holiday shutdown, paid volunteer hours, and premium lifestyle amenities at our corporate campus in Irvine, California.