Senior Counsel, Privacy

Sun Life U.S. is one of the largest providers of employee and government benefits, helping approximately 50 million Americans access the care and coverage they need. Through employers, industry partners and government programs, Sun Life U.S. offers a portfolio of benefits and services, including dental, vision, disability, absence management, life, supplemental health, medical stop-loss insurance, and healthcare navigation. We have more than 6,400 employees and associates in our partner dental practices and operate nationwide.

At Sun Life, we're driven by our Purpose: helping our Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives. Our values shape how we work: caring, authentic, bold, inspiring, and impactful.

When you join Sun Life, you'll work with passionate colleagues and empowering leaders who support your growth and celebrate your contributions, so you can make a meaningful difference in our Clients' lives.

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Sun Life embraces a hybrid work model that balances in-office collaboration with the flexibility of virtual work. Our team members and leaders are expected to foster connection and teamwork by being present in the office at least 2 days per week. ​

The Opportunity:

Sun Life’s U.S. Law Department is seeking a Senior Counsel, Privacy to join its corporate legal team.  In this role, you will advise on legal and compliance issues relating to privacy, information security, and responsible use of data and artificial intelligence, supporting all aspects of the company’s U.S. business.  You will partner with business leaders and cross-functional stakeholders to develop practical and compliant solutions in support of key business initiatives.

How you will contribute:

Working closely with the managing Vice President & Associate General Counsel, the essential functions of this role include:

• Provide advice and guidance related to federal and state privacy and information security laws, including HIPAA, Gramm-Leach Bliley, California Consumer Privacy Act, and New York State Cybersecurity Requirements for Financial Services Companies.

• Provide day-to-day legal counsel on data collection, use, disclosure, and analytics practices, and the use of artificial intelligence.

• Assist with responding to data subject rights requests.

• Draft, review, and negotiate privacy and data protection terms in commercial agreements with vendors, clients, and others, as well as data security agreements, business associate agreements, and other similar agreements. Provide related guidance and support to business and functional leaders throughout the company.

• Deliver legal advice and counsel to the compliance and incident response teams to evaluate privacy and data security incidents and notification obligations under applicable state and federal laws. 

• Monitor changes in laws and regulations relating to privacy, information security, and artificial intelligence, including through active participation in relevant industry groups.  Evaluate the impact of these changes on contracts and business practices and provide proactive, clear, and actionable guidance to internal stakeholders. 

What you will bring with you: 

• J.D. degree and an active license to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction in good standing.

• At least 7 years of relevant legal experience with substantial focus on privacy and data protection; knowledge and experience in insurance and/or financial services is strongly preferred. 

• Adept at applying relevant laws to matters and providing proactive, practical advice to colleagues and business clients clearly and concisely.

• Proven track record of establishing excellent team-oriented and collaborative interpersonal working relationships.