General Counsel (Ref#054)

 COMPANY PROFILE:

We are a family-owned commercial Building and Loan who believe that small businesses are the backbone of the economy.  With over thirty years of experience, we specialize in creating tailored lending solutions to help small businesses thrive. Through SBA loans, equipment financing, and short-term bridge loans, we empower entrepreneurs to achieve their goals and take advantage of growth opportunities. As a company, we place a high value on integrity and character, both professionally and personally. These core values shape our culture and guide our interactions with clients, colleagues, and partners. We also believe in striking a healthy balance of hard work and rest so that our employees lead fulfilling lives both inside and outside of the office.  

POSITION OVERVIEW

As General Counsel, you will play a key role in shaping and overseeing the legal affairs of the Building and Loan and its affiliates, offering guidance on complex legal matters, and ensuring the organization remains compliant and well-positioned for continued growth and success. You will work closely with the senior leadership and external legal counsel to navigate legal issues in areas such as loan transactions, debt collections, real estate transactions, acquisitions, and other general business matters. Your legal expertise and ability to work seamlessly within our company’s culture will be essential to supporting the company’s objectives while safeguarding its legal interests. This position will primarily work out of the Newnan office, but hybrid remote work is an option. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Legal Counsel: Provide legal guidance to the Founder and CEO on a broad spectrum of business issues, including corporate governance, risk management, compliance, and strategy.
• Loan Transactions: Oversee legal aspects of loan transactions, including drafting and negotiating loan documents, advising on terms and conditions, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Debt Collections: Lead and oversee the bank’s debt collection efforts, advising on collection strategies and coordinating with outside counsel as needed.
• Real Estate Transactions: Handle legal matters related to the bank’s real estate holdings and transactions, including acquisitions, leases, and dispositions.
• Business Transactions: Provide legal support for general business deals, including mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and strategic partnerships.
• Outside Counsel Management: Oversee and manage relationships with external law firms, ensuring cost-effective and efficient legal services.
• Compliance & Risk Management: Monitor and ensure the company’s compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards. Provide proactive legal risk management advice.

IDEAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Reside in the Atlanta, Georgia area or be willing to relocate.
• 15 years of experience, preferably within commercial lending, financial services, or real estate sectors.
• Proven experience in loan transactions, debt collections, real estate transactions, and general business deals (including acquisitions).
• Strong understanding regulatory compliance
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to present complex legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders.
• A hands-on, business-minded approach with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively within a small, close-knit 
• team.