Lead Counsel / Managing Attorney (Founding Role)

Lead Counsel / Managing Attorney (Founding Role)

A rapidly growing insurance-focused organization is seeking a Lead Counsel / Managing Attorney to build and lead a fully integrated in-house legal function from the ground up. This is a foundational leadership role responsible for shaping the company’s legal, regulatory, and litigation strategy while establishing a high-performing internal claims defense team.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned legal professional with deep expertise in Michigan insurance law, a strong operational mindset, and a proven ability to build and scale legal teams.

Key Responsibilities

1. In-House Legal Function Development

• Design and execute the strategy for building an in-house insurance defense firm
• Recruit, hire, and lead attorneys, paralegals, and legal support staff
• Implement case management systems, workflows, and billing protocols
• Transition legal work from external firms to an internal team to optimize performance and cost efficiency

2. Regulatory & Compliance Leadership 

• Oversee compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments impacting the business
• Lead filings, licensing, and Certificates of Authorization across jurisdictions
• Serve as the primary liaison with regulatory agencies and insurance departments
• Ensure ongoing adherence to evolving legal and compliance standards

3. Litigation Strategy & Oversight 

• Develop and execute litigation strategy across the organization’s portfolio
• Review and triage incoming claims and assign internal or external counsel
• Oversee all phases of litigation from inception through resolution
• Establish settlement strategies and trial recommendations aligned with risk tolerance
• Drive consistency, quality, and performance across all legal matters

4. Strategic Advisory & Business Partnership

• Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on legal, regulatory, and risk matters
• Provide guidance on complex legal issues and high-stakes business decisions
• Support the development of new insurance products and policy structures
• Establish and promote best practices in corporate governance and risk management

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school
• Active member in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan
• 8–10+ years of experience in Michigan insurance law and regulatory matters
• Deep expertise in No-Fault, auto insurance defense, and related litigation
• Proven experience building, scaling, or managing legal teams or departments
• Strong leadership capabilities with the ability to operate both strategically and hands-on
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to translate complex legal concepts into business-focused guidance

What Sets This Role Apart

• Opportunity to build and lead an in-house legal operation from inception
• High visibility and direct partnership with executive leadership
• Significant influence over legal strategy, business operations, and long-term growth
• A rare combination of legal authority, operational ownership, and strategic impact

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive executive-level compensation (commensurate with experience)
• Performance-based incentives
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous paid time off and holidays