Seletha R. Butler
Associate General Counsel and Head of Strategic Contracting Legal – Truist Bank
Description of field of expertise
I head the Strategic Contracting Legal Team (formerly Procurement Contracting) where I manage a team of nine attorneys. The SCL Team handles all complex commercial transactions involving third party suppliers of Truist. We also provide day-to-day Legal counsel to Truist lines of business and function areas related to third party engagements, marketing, and corporate communication matters and give general advice regarding third party risk and procurement contracting. I also serve on the Truist Legal Department’s Pro Bono Working Group working to assist in the legal pro bono activities that Truist Legal Department engages in to serve the Truist communities.
What advice would you offer to new attorneys interested in your field?
I have three pieces of advice. Take as many opportunities as possible to study and understand ethical actions and behavior. As legal counselors, we have a role in looking at things greater than just the law. We counsel and advise our clients and should be talking not just can they do something but also have discussions regarding should they do something. Secondly, be a wise steward of your finances. The practice of law is a deep commitment and involves lots of sacrifices. Always try to put yourself in a position where you are not handcuffed by financial obligations. Lastly, the hours are long and people can be challenging. Thus, find what you enjoy doing. As an attorney, you have received excellent training. Be creative with your career, and don’t feel that you must follow a traditional path.
Final thoughts…
In addition to your job practicing law and your personal commitments, take time for yourself and to serve your community. I have found passion, mental health balance, and career advancement by engaging in community activities including serving on non-profit boards and other activities. In 2017, I started a scholarship program – the Judge Willie J. Lovett, Jr. Scholarship Program – in honor of my late husband who as a Presiding Judge of the Fulton County Juvenile Court. The Lovett Scholarship Program provides an award of $3,000 per academic year for up to four years of undergraduate course work at a four-year private or public U.S. accredited college or university. I’m also involved in the political arena. Most recently, I am assisting a local candidate in a bid for local superintendent of education. This connects to my firm belief that K-12 public education is essential and all students should have access to a quality education. I also am passionate about college and NFL football so I spend many Saturdays in the Fall/Winter attending Alabama football games. Roll Tide!
