Counsel (Hybrid)

The Counsel works closely with the Managing Counsel and Senior Vice President, Chief Legal Officer (CLO) to anticipate, assess and work closely with business partners to address legal and business issues, identify risks and potential liabilities and develop well-reasoned and effective solutions. Counsel proactively anticipates and recognizes issues and proposes innovative and responsive solutions, is knowledgeable regarding the statutes, regulations, and procedures relevant to the WCIRB and is a resource for staff in all departments.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide legal services in a wide range of areas, including but not limited to general business matters, regulatory compliance, privacy and security, litigation, intellectual property, contracts, records retention, subpoenas and document production, procedures documentation, legislation, risk management and governance.
• Prepare cases on appeal to the California Department of Insurance (CDI) pertaining to the application of the Commissioner's regulations and monitor and consult on staff's responses to Inquiries and Complaints.
• Draft revisions to the Insurance Commissioner's regulations and WCIRB advisory plans.
• Perform internal quality assurance reviews for the Audit Committee.
• Draft standard endorsement forms and policyholder notices; maintain and update the Forms Manual; review non-standard forms, including ancillary agreements, for compliance with California law; and provide legal advice regarding forms compliance issues.
• Manage the WCIRB intellectual property, including all copyright and trademark submissions.
• Negotiate and draft WCIRB contracts with members, outside vendors, consultants and business partners and update online Terms of Use, Privacy Policies and click-through agreements.
• Draft WCIRB bulletins, committee agendas and minutes, and working group meeting materials and summaries, and participate in Committee and Working Group meetings as necessary.
• Conduct staff training regarding a variety of legal topics including privacy and security matters; handling inquiries, complaints and appeals; the contract and purchase order process; and Custodian of Records requirements.
• Manage the fraud request and subpoena processes, including subpoenas for the testimony of WCIRB witnesses, and manage the Coverage Website to ensure compliance with regulations, statutes, and best practices.
• Respond to requests for information from employers, agents and brokers, attorneys, governmental agencies and insurers.
• Review external facing communications, publications, presentations, web postings and decisions prior to issuance to ensure compliance.
• Monitor and analyze legislation and review regulations and statutes pertaining to WCIRB operations to ensure compliance.
• Conduct legal research on a wide range of issues and provide written analysis.
• Maintain and enhance required skills through continuing education.
• Monitor best practices for privacy and security and work closely with Security Director to implement and update privacy and security policies, practices and procedures.

Education and Experience:

• Juris Doctor degree
• Five to ten years' experience working in a relevant area of law.?Minimum of two years working as a practicing attorney; in-house, litigation or insurance sector experience a plus.
• Active membership in good standing with the State Bar of California required.
• Background in contracts, compliance, privacy or risk management preferred.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office