American Electric Power

Vice President of Legal

American Electric Power • $221K — $287K *
Fayetteville, AR 72701In-Person
Legal & Accounting
11 - 15 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • LLB or Juris Doctorate (JD) degree, admitted to practice in relevant jurisdiction.
  • 15+ years of legal experience, including utility regulation and leadership in a diverse legal portfolio.
  • In-depth experience with commercial transactions and litigation management.
  • Expert knowledge of state regulatory laws and policies.
  • Preferred experience in drafting legislation for electric utility regulation.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the legal strategy for the Operating Company, aligning with business goals.
  • Develop and execute tactical plans to meet regulatory and policy objectives.
  • Proactively identify and address regulatory issues, minimizing risk.
  • Advocate on behalf of the company at state commissions and legislative bodies.
  • Guide leadership on a range of legal matters and coordinate with corporate legal resources.
  • Define responsibilities within the legal team to ensure coverage of various legal areas.

Benefits

  • Annual bonus opportunities
  • Long-term incentive plans
  • 401K retirement savings plan
  • AEP pension plan
  • Comprehensive benefits package
Full Job Description
Job Posting End Date
09-11-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

Job Description Summary
Leads the Operating Company's legal and regulatory strategy, providing business-focused legal counsel, managing regulatory risk, advocating before state commissions and legislatures, and coordinating with Corporate Legal and outside counsel on contracts, compliance, litigation, and other legal matters. Partners with regulatory leadership to support company objectives and ensure effective legal coverage across jurisdictions.

Job Description

What You'll Do:
  • Coordinate with AEP Corporate Legal to establish and lead the Operating Company's overall legal strategy providing practical, business-oriented counsel to leadership across the full range of legal matters affecting operations, strategic priorities, regulatory obligations and risk.
  • Develop, implement and coordinate tactical plans to implement legal strategy in support of regulatory and policy objectives at the State Commission and the Legislature.
  • Anticipate regulatory issues and proactively identify legal solutions and opportunities that limit regulatory risk and leverage regulatory opportunities.
  • Engage directly and personally in advocacy before the State Utility Commission and the Legislature body on legal matters in support of company strategy.
  • Maintain sufficient knowledge across the legal matters affecting the Operating Company to identify risks and, provide initial guidance so that specialized AEP Corporate Legal resources and/or outside counsel can be engaged.
  • Work directly with AEP Corporate Legal resources to provide guidance on commercial agreements, real estate matters, litigation, compliance and other legal matters, coordinating with the AEP Corporate Legal and outside counsel as appropriate.
  • Establish an effective division of responsibilities between the Vice President and the Operating Company's Regulatory attorney, including shared responsibility for regulatory proceedings across the Operating Company's jurisdictions and appropriate coverage of contracts and other general legal matters.


What we're looking for:

Education
  • LLB or Juris Doctorate (JD) degree. Admitted to practice law in the appropriate jurisdiction.


Experience
  • At least 15 years of progressively responsible legal experience, including leadership of a broad legal portfolio and meaningful experience in utility regulation, commercial transactions, contracts, real estate, litigation management and the effective use of outside counsel.
  • Preferred qualifications include prior leadership experience in state government related to energy policy; extensive experience working with regulators and policymakers; and an in-depth understanding of the company's regulatory positions and regulatory finances.
  • Expert understanding of state regulatory laws, tariffs and policy.
  • Experience drafting legislation regarding electric utility regulation is preferred.


Where You'll Work:
  • Onsite at the SWEPCO Office in Shreveport, LA


What you'll get:
  • Base Salary
  • Annual Bonus
  • Long Term Incentive
  • 401K
  • AEP Pension
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package


Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-013

Compensation Range:

$221,489.00 - $287,934.50

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

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About American Electric Power

American Electric Power generates, transmits, and distributes electricity, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers nationwide. AEP serves millions of customers across 11 states. It operates in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity, providing power to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. AEP generates electricity using diverse sources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear, and renewable energy like wind and solar. The company maintains a vast transmission network that delivers electricity from power plants to local distribution systems, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply. AEP is actively involved in renewable energy initiatives, investing in wind farms and solar facilities to diversify its energy portfolio and reduce its environmental impact. Additionally, the company engages in community outreach, supporting education, environmental conservation, and various social initiatives.

American Electric Power Careers

Join the dynamic team at American Electric Power (AEP), one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, and ignite your career with a company known for its commitment to innovation and leadership in the energy sector.

Opportunities Await

At AEP, we offer a multitude of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and professional interests. Whether you're seeking an entry-level position or a more senior role, our diverse range of employment options ensures that there's a place for every ambitious individual in our team.

Grow and Innovate

Embark on a journey of growth and professional development with AEP. Our company is at the forefront of the energy industry’s transformation, integrating sustainable and innovative practices that not only lead the market but also contribute to a greener planet. Engage in work that challenges the status quo, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the energy sector.

Culture and Benefits

AEP is dedicated to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion, where every team member’s contribution is valued. We offer competitive benefits that support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees and their families. From comprehensive health benefits to professional development programs and diversity training, AEP ensures that our team is equipped for both personal and professional success.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with an AEP internship. Our programs provide invaluable industry experience and networking opportunities that pave the way for future employment. Interns at AEP work on real projects, learn from seasoned professionals, and gain the hands-on experience necessary to succeed in the fast-paced world of energy.

Leadership and Development

Leadership at AEP means more than guiding teams – it involves inspiring change and driving innovation. With leadership development programs, employees are prepared to take on challenging roles that shape the future of the company and the industry. Our focus on leadership and continuous improvement creates an environment where ambitious professionals can thrive.

Join Our Team

Explore the career possibilities at American Electric Power today. Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are constantly hiring new talent and look for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Prepare your resume, ace the interview, and join a company where your career can flourish.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at AEP by following our careers blog. Gain insider perspectives, industry-leading insights, and career tips that you can put to use today—all from the people who work here.

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Explore American Electric Power Jobs

Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the industry, AEP offers a dynamic work environment where innovation, leadership, and growth are part of everyday life. Join us in powering a new and brighter future for everyone.
Learn more about American Electric Power
Size
16,688 employees
Market Cap
$48.8 billion
Industry
Energy & Utilities
Net Income
$2.2 billion
Founded
1906
5 Year Trend
+0.5%
Revenue
$14.9 billion
NASDAQ
AEP
* Ladders Estimates

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