This week, we sat down with Robert Irwin, Associate General Counsel to gain perspective about life on a slightly less visible part of the On Deck Team – our Legal Department. While we’ve shown you employees on our Sales and Engineering Team, here’s a glimpse into an important part of the On Deck ecosystem.
1. Explain what you do in your role with On Deck.
As Associate Counsel with On Deck, I support our General Counsel on legal, regulatory and financial matters. I manage On Deck’s compliance program, advise on the legal aspects of financial transactions and draft and review contracts.
2. Why did you decide to join On Deck?
On Deck provided an opportunity to work on the cutting edge of legal issues at a developing start-up. As we have grown, no two days are ever the same. The projects I work on are all different, but exciting, as we address novel legal matters each day. I work closely with our Finance team to support corporate transactions and advise on regulatory matters with the Product team as they develop new and innovative lending solutions for small businesses.
3. In your opinion, what is the best part about working at On Deck?
The freedom one has to succeed. If I see an issue, I can develop and implement a solution. We have an open culture and exchange ideas across all teams. If there is a change we need to make due to a legal restriction, I work with our Product, Technology, Credit, Marketing and Operations Departments to develop new solutions.
4. What advice would you give to someone looking to join the company?
Join now! This is an exciting place to work and we are doing very cool, very big things.
5. What would someone be surprised to know about On Deck?
We have a very flat structure here – everyone on our Leadership Team is very accessible. They will both listen to and engage you in any ideas you have to further the company.