Corporate Counsel, North America

Why Valvoline Global Operations?At Valvoline Global Operations, we’re proud to be The Original Motor Oil, but we’ve never rested on being first. Founded in 1866, we introduced the world’s first branded motor oil, staking our claim as a pioneer in the automotive and industrial solutions industry. Today, as an affiliate of Aramco, one of the world’s largest integrated energy and chemicals companies, we are driven by innovation and committed to creating sustainable solutions for a better future.With a global presence, we develop future-ready products and provide best-in-class services for our partners around the world. For us, originality isn’t just about where we began; it’s about where we’re headed and how we’ll lead the way. We are originality in motion.Our Corporate Values—Care, Integrity, Passion, Unity, And Excellence—are At The Heart Of Everything We Do. These Values Define How We Operate, How We Treat One Another, And How We Engage With Our Partners, Customers, And The Communities We Serve. At Valvoline Global, We Are United In Our Commitment To Treating everyone with care. Acting with unwavering integrity. Striving for excellence in all endeavors. Delivering on our commitments with passion. Collaborating as one unified team.When you join Valvoline Global, you’ll become part of a culture that celebrates creativity, innovation, and excellence. Together, we’re shaping the future of automotive and industrial solutions.Valvoline Global Operations Headquarters is located in Lexington, KY. We prefer local candidates willing to work an in-office work schedule (3 days per week). *We're also open to candidates working in a remote capacity. The Corporate Counsel – North America serves as the lead legal advisor for key commercial and marketing-related activities across North America, including LD DIFM, HD DIFM, DIY, Channel Partners, and Marketing. This role owns legal support for these domains, partnering directly with senior business leaders to shape strategy, enable growth, and manage legal and regulatory risk.How You Will Make An ImpactThis position operates with a high degree of independence and accountability, providing both strategic and executional legal guidance across complex and high-impact initiatives. In addition to supporting core commercial activities, the role is responsible for advancing legal operations capabilities—particularly contract lifecycle management (CLM)—and establishing scalable processes that enhance efficiency and compliance. Reporting to the Senior Counsel – North America, this role also leads and develops one direct report and contributes to broader legal team effectiveness through functional leadership, knowledge sharing, and process improvement. The position is based in Lexington in a hybrid work environment.Key Responsibilities IncludeDomain Ownership: Commercial & Channel Legal SupportServe as the primary legal owner for assigned North America business segments (LD DIFM, HD DIFM, DIY, Channel Partners), accountable for end-to-end legal support and risk managementPartner directly with senior business leadership to influence commercial strategy, structure complex arrangements, and support market expansion initiativesLead negotiation and structuring of high-impact commercial agreements, including distribution, supply, and strategic partnershipsEstablish legal frameworks and standards that enable scalable, consistent support across business linesProvide expert guidance on distributor models and channel strategies, including associated legal and business considerationsDomain Ownership: Marketing, Advertising & PromotionsOwn legal oversight of marketing and advertising activities, ensuring compliant and risk-balanced execution across campaigns and initiativesAdvise marketing leadership on brand positioningStructure and approve sponsorships, promotional programs, sweepstakes, and giveawaysDevelop and implement policies, playbooks, and training to drive consistency and compliance in marketing practicesLegal Operations & CLM LeadershipLead the evolution of Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) capabilities within the commercial North America legal functionDefine contracting standards, templates, and governance models to improve efficiency, reduce risk, and enhance visibilityDrive adoption of CLM tools and processes across business stakeholders, influencing behavior and ensuring sustained utilizationIdentify and implement continuous improvements in legal workflows, leveraging technology and best practicesLeadership & Functional InfluenceManage and develop one direct report, providing ongoing coaching, performance management, and career developmentAct as a functional leader within the legal team, contributing to prioritization, knowledge sharing, and capability buildingMentor junior team members and help elevate overall team performance and consistencyEnterprise Risk Management & Cross-Functional PartnershipCollaborate with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and other corporate functions to proactively identify, assess, and mitigate legal risksExercise independent judgment in evaluating complex legal issues and determining appropriate risk toleranceSupport resolution of disputes and escalated matters, engaging senior leadership as appropriateEnsure adherence to applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies across supported domainsWhat You'll NeedJuris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law schoolActive license to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdictionMinimum of 3–5 years of relevant legal experience, with demonstrated ability to operate with increasing independence and responsibilityProven ability to independently manage complex commercial legal matters and advise business stakeholdersStrong experience reviewing and advising on marketing claims, advertising, sponsorships, promotions, sweepstakes, and giveawaysExperience implementing or leading workstreams related to Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) systems strongly preferredPrior experience managing, mentoring, or leading others; direct people management experience preferredAdvanced contract drafting, negotiation, and risk assessment skillsStrong business acumen and ability to influence decision-making at multiple levels of the organizationAbility to establish processes, drive adoption, and improve ways of workingIndustry experience (automotive, retail, or distribution) preferred but not requiredOccasional travel required (approximately 10–15%) to support business initiatives and team engagementWhat Will Set You ApartDistributor or channel partner experience Benefits That Drive ThemselvesHealth insurance plans (medical, dental, vision)Health Savings Account (with an employer-base deposit and match)Flexible spending accountsCompetitive 401(k) with generous employer base deposit and matchIncentive opportunity*Life insuranceShort- and long-term disability insurancePaid vacation and holidays*Employee Assistance ProgramEmployee discountsPTO Buy/Sell Options*Tuition reimbursement*Adoption assistance*Terms and conditions apply, and benefits may differ depending on position or tenure.Compensation range $120,00-$150,000 based on candidates experience, plus bonus eligible Valvoline Global is an equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and skills. We strictly prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected characteristic.We are committed to ensuring accessibility throughout our recruitment process. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any stage of the recruitment or selection process, please contact us at:. Email: Valvolineglobalcareers@valvolineglobal.comThis contact information is solely for accommodation requests. For inquiries about application status, please use the appropriate channels listed in your application materials.Are You Ready to Make an Impact?At Valvoline Global, we’re looking for passionate and talented individuals to join our journey of innovation and excellence. Are you ready to shape the future with us? Apply today.Requisition ID: 2280