Description:

Job Summary:
As a strategic legal leader, you will play a critical role in advancing the company's growth and transformation agenda in a highly regulated industry. This role supports enterprise-wide initiatives by minimizing legal risk, ensuring compliance, and enabling innovation.

Aligned with our challenger mindset, you will:

Get close to our consumers by understanding the legal and regulatory barriers that impact their transition to smoke-free alternatives.
Empower our people by building legal frameworks, systems, and partnerships that support high performance and informed decision-making.
You will serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, shaping legal strategy that protects the company's interests while unlocking new pathways for growth.

What you will do:
Duties and Responsibilities:
(This list is not exhaustive and may be supplemented as necessary by the Company)
Strategic Legal Counsel

Advise senior leadership and business units on complex legal and regulatory matters, aligning legal strategy with business objectives.
Anticipate legal risks and develop proactive strategies to mitigate them, particularly in areas of high regulatory scrutiny.
Monitor and interpret legal developments and industry trends to inform risk management and corporate strategy.

Regulatory & Compliance Leadership

Ensure compliance with evolving federal, state, and local laws governing tobacco and nicotine products, including licensing, labeling, marketing, and distribution.
Engage with state regulators and attorneys general on matters related to the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement (MSA), taxation, and youth access prevention.
Provide strategic guidance on corporate governance and compliance frameworks.

Litigation & Risk Management

Lead and manage outside counsel in litigation matters, ensuring alignment with company strategy and cost efficiency.
Serve as the primary liaison between the company and external counsel, overseeing litigation strategy, internal witness development, and policy alignment.
Monitor litigation budgets and identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements.

Policy & Governance

Develop and implement internal policies and procedures to protect the company's legal interests and support operational excellence.
Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure legal considerations are embedded in business planning and execution.

Commercial & Contractual Advisory

Draft, negotiate, and advise on a wide range of commercial agreements, including retail, technology, procurement, licensing, and professional services contracts.
Provide legal support for intellectual property matters, including trademarks, copyrights, and licensing.
Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Key Accountabilities:
Required Minimum Qualifications:

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
Minimum of 8 years of legal experience, including time at a leading law firm.
Experience in a highly regulated industry; tobacco industry experience preferred.
Must be 21 years of age or older.

Work Environment and Physical Demand:

Requires light physical effort. Occasionally lifts or moves light objects (under 10 lbs.).
Walks, sits, or stands for prolonged periods.
Requires prolonged machine operation including computer and keyboard equipment as well as use of manual dexterity and fine motor skills.

Skills & Experience:
Skills & Competencies:

Strong strategic thinking and business acumen.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proven ability to manage complex legal issues and influence cross-functional stakeholders.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Microsoft Teams.