Senior Counsel, Commercial Transactions

At Vanguard, we believe in doing what’s right for our clients—and for the long term. Our mission‑driven culture, collaborative environment, and commitment to innovation create an opportunity to do meaningful work that has real impact. As Vanguard continues to evolve its business and technology capabilities, the Office of the General Counsel plays a critical role in supporting responsible growth while navigating complex legal and compliance challenges.

Vanguard is seeking a Senior Counsel to join its Office of the General Counsel and support a growing, dynamic business. This role will lead the legal review, drafting, and negotiation of procurement agreements, with a strong focus on technology‑related transactions including SaaS, AI, and data licensing. The Senior Counsel will partner closely with cross‑functional teams to provide strategic legal guidance, support business objectives, and manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the review, drafting, and approval of procurement agreements, with a particular focus on technology, including SaaS, artificial intelligence and data licensing, and general procurement agreements.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams (finance, procurement, business units) to support transactions and address legal issues.
• Provide legal advice, counsel, and recommendations to senior management on significant issues.
• Balance conflicting resources and priority demands.
• Interpret and apply policies and identify and recommend changes as appropriate.
• Prioritize and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamically changing environment
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment.
• Handle stressful situations and maintain a collegial and respectful environment.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships at all levels of the organization, including negotiating resources.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school and active bar membership.
• 4+ years of relevant experience (e.g., software licensing, cloud services, data privacy, information security, complex negotiations and key contract provisions like indemnification, warranties, SLAs, etc.).
• Skilled in drafting and negotiating software license agreements, data licensing agreements, and procurement agreements.
• Ability to communicate complex legal issues clearly to different collaborators.
• Must have a positive, can-do demeanor, be able to provide solutions that balance legal and business concerns, be service oriented, build and use a cross-functional network, and be an excellent teammate.
• Financial Services background is strongly preferred; familiarity with industry regulations and risk considerations is a plus.

Special Factors

Sponsorship

About Vanguard

At Vanguard, we don't just have a mission—we're on a mission.

To work for the long-term financial wellbeing of our clients. To lead through product and services that transform our clients' lives. To learn and develop our skills as individuals and as a team. From Malvern to Melbourne, our mission drives us forward and inspires us to be our best.

How We Work

Vanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members, designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning, collaboration, and connection. We believe our mission-driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long-term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.