Kristen James

As the general counsel of True Manufacturing, I’m focused on being a trusted advisor and partner to the executive team, various business units, and stakeholders. In my daily work, I advise on a wide range of legal matters, including global regulatory compliance, international contracts, HR/employment, intellectual property, privacy, and corporate governance. I began my legal career at a boutique management-side labor and employment firm, where I represented employers in various labor and employment disputes and litigation, including collective bargaining, arbitration, work stoppages, OFCCP and EEOC compliance, union avoidance, and handling charges before the National Labor Relations Board. My work also included advising businesses on best practices, such as drafting employment contracts and separation agreements, updating employee handbooks and personnel policies, building affirmative action plans, and counseling on other day-to-day employment issues. In 2013, I joined True Manufacturing as its first-ever corporate counsel, and I’ve had the unique opportunity to build out the legal department and tackle a broad number of legal and business issues for the enterprise while also learning every granular detail of the business. This has enabled me to serve as a forward-thinking corporate generalist who can balance risk while also giving practical legal advice that fits into the company’s long-term business goals. I’m proud of the growth we’ve achieved over the last decade, and I continue to remain passionate about building consensus and strong relationships at all levels of the organization. When I’m not working, you can find me seeking new adventures (I’m an adrenaline junkie), trying a new cuisine, traveling, and being a dog mom to my cocker spaniel, Izzie.