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Counsel, Dealer Relations & Litigation

Date: Mar 16, 2023

Location: Fountain Valley, CA, US, 92708

Company: Hyundai Motor America

At Hyundai, we’ve rethought our business and created cars that combine performance, quality, design and innovation into a complete package.

It’s time you rethink what you expect from an employer.

At Hyundai, we understand you're not just building a career – you're building a life. We believe in our people and realize that our success is a direct result of our commitment in offering you great opportunities for your career. If you would enjoy working in a dynamic environment and are looking for a chance to become part of a stellar team of professionals, we invite you to apply online today.

 

Location

NHQ

Purpose

~ Provide legal advice and counsel on all legal issues affecting manufacturer/dealer relationship, including management of dealer franchise litigation.

Major Responsibilities

~ Provide ongoing legal advice and counsel to Dealer Development and HMA/GMA Regions on legal issues affecting the manufacturer/dealer relationship, including interpretation of HMA’s/GMA’s dealer agreement and issues relating to dealer franchise law, distribution, warranty, incentive and pricing issues.

~ Draft and/or review documents relating to market representation actions and dealer transactions with HMA/GMA, including letters of intent, relocation commitment letters, default notices, termination notices, asset purchase agreements, dealer appointment notices to state agencies, dealer financial assistance requests and internal market studies.

~ Draft and/or review documents relating to the HMA/GMA Dealer Sales and Service Agreement.

~ Manage manufacturer/dealer litigation across the country. Management includes supervising the matter, formulating case strategies and tactics, marshaling the company resources for prosecution of the case, and the handling of discovery.

~ Maintain current knowledge of and provide regular updates to Dealer Development and HMA/GMA Regions on recent developments in state dealer franchise laws, federal regulations and case law.

~ Assist Dealer Development and the HMA/GMA Regions with the development of dealer/manufacturer policies and procedures, including forms for letters, contracts and agreements with dealers; review and provide training to HMA/GMA Regions on franchise law, best practices, and the use of dealer contact reports.

~ Assist Internal Audit and Finance on legal issues relating to dealer incentive and warranty audit matters; manage related dealer disputes and litigation.

~ Conduct, as needed, research into various state law franchise affairs. Prepare memoranda regarding the same.

Major Responsibilities (continued)

Authority

~ High level of independent judgment needed for problem solving and identification of critical issues affecting HMA’s dealer body.

~ Support various HMA and GMA departments through obtaining feedback and suggestions for program improvements, and considering what changes are feasible and appropriate.

Education

~ Bachelor’s degree required.
~ Juris Doctorate required.

Related Experience

~ Five or more years of experience in franchise law or franchise affairs

Skills/Knowledge

~ Strong analytical skills, strong drafting and negotiation skills, strong oral and written communication skills

~ Ability to analyze and provide review and commentary on business risk within compressed time frame.

~ An understanding of 50-state franchise laws

~ A strong understanding of automotive dealer operations and networks

~ Excellent people skills

~ Team-oriented and willing to work collectively

~ Strong work ethic essential

~ Self-motivated and innovative

Certification Required

~ Member California State Bar Association

Physical Requirements

Normal office duties

Work Model

Hybrid

Compensation

$95,850.00 - $142,000.00 Annual

Benefits

Benefits include healthcare insurance (medical/prescription, dental, vision), 401(k) company match, a quarterly employer enhanced contribution, basic life insurance, short- and long-term disability, employee assistance program (work/life balance programs and confidential counseling), expert medical services (provider referrals, second opinion), business travel accident insurance, health advocacy (coordinate care and services, assistance with claim and billing issues, understanding Hyundai benefits), annual discretionary bonus, accrued vacation pay, company provided sick pay, vehicle lease program (monthly fee includes insurance and maintenance).

 

Our Company adheres to the equal employment opportunity guidelines set forth by federal, state and local laws.  The information requested on this form is sought in good faith and will not be used to discriminate against the applicant based on race, religion or creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic characteristics, marital status, sex or gender (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, or related circumstances), gender identity, gender expression, age, citizenship, sexual orientation, family care or medical leave status, military and veteran status, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state and local laws.


Nearest Major Market: Orange County
Nearest Secondary Market: Los Angeles