Chief Counsel, Arc

Circle is a financial technology company at the epicenter of the emerging internet of money, where value can finally travel like other digital data - globally, nearly instantly and less expensively than legacy settlement systems. This ground-breaking new internet layer opens up previously unimaginable possibilities for payments, commerce and markets that can help raise global economic prosperity and enhance inclusion. Our infrastructure - including USDC, a blockchain-based dollar - helps businesses, institutions and developers harness these breakthroughs and capitalize on this major turning point in the evolution of money and technology.
What you'll be part of:
Circle is committed to visibility and stability in everything we do. As we grow as an organization, we're expanding into some of the world's strongest jurisdictions. Speed and efficiency are motivators for our success and our employees live by our company values : High Integrity, Future Forward, Multistakeholder, Mindful, and Driven by Excellence. We have built a flexible and diverse work environment where new ideas are encouraged and everyone is a stakeholder.
What you'll be responsible for:
As Chief Counsel for the Arc Blockchain Network, you will serve as the lead legal advisor supporting Arc's blockchain and infrastructure initiatives. You will provide strategic guidance on the design, operation, and governance of the Arc Network, partnering closely with senior leaders across Legal, Product, Compliance, and Policy to navigate complex global regulatory landscapes. You will anticipate and manage legal risks related to decentralized technologies, smart contracts, and digital asset frameworks, ensuring the Arc Network operates in alignment with Circle's regulatory obligations, business objectives, and commitment to responsible innovation.
What you'll work on:

• Advise on the design, launch, and governance of the Arc Network to ensure legal and regulatory compliance across global markets.
• Lead analysis of emerging digital asset, securities, and financial regulations impacting decentralized infrastructure.
• Partner with Product, Policy, and Engineering teams to structure blockchain features and smart contract frameworks consistent with applicable law.
• Drive negotiation and drafting of strategic commercial, technology, and partnership agreements related to the Arc Network.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and risk controls that enable responsible network operation and innovation.
• Represent Circle in external regulatory discussions and industry forums to shape and advocate for thoughtful blockchain policy.
• Provide strategic counsel to senior leadership on legal risks, governance models, and long-term growth opportunities for the Arc ecosystem.

What you'll bring to Circle:
Core Requirements

• 12+ years of legal experience, including significant experience in financial services, fintech, or blockchain-related matters.
• Deep understanding of global financial regulations, securities laws, and digital asset frameworks.
• Proven ability to counsel executives and product leaders on complex regulatory and commercial issues.
• Demonstrated experience drafting, negotiating, and managing high-value technology or infrastructure agreements.
• J.D. or equivalent law degree with strong academic credentials; member in good standing of at least one U.S. state bar.

Preferred Requirements

• Experience advising on blockchain infrastructure, smart contracts, or decentralized network governance.
• Prior in-house counsel experience in a fintech, payments, or crypto-native company.
• Familiarity with global regulatory regimes, including MiCA, AML, and money transmission frameworks.
• Exceptional communication and leadership skills with a collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset.

Circle is on a mission to create an inclusive financial future, with transparency at our core. We consider a wide variety of elements when crafting our compensation ranges and total compensation packages.
Starting pay is determined by various factors, including but not limited to: relevant experience, skill set, qualifications, and other business and organizational needs. Please note that compensation ranges may differ for candidates in other locations.
Base Pay Range: $257,500 - $322,500
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at Circle. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. Additionally, Circle participates in the E-Verify Program in certain locations, as required by law.
Should you require accommodations or assistance in our interview process because of a disability, please reach out to [email protected] for support. We respect your privacy and will connect with you separately from our interview process to accommodate your needs.
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