Rich Otera

~ Seasoned adviser to automotive, powersports and equipment OEMs ~ Outside general counsel

Rich Otera is a prominent legal professional with extensive experience in franchise and distribution law, particularly in the motor vehicle industry. He currently serves as the Managing Partner of the Los Angeles office at Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLP, an AmLaw100 full-service law firm.1 2

Professional Background

Rich Otera has over 20 years of experience counseling clients in various aspects of the motor vehicle industry in the United States. His expertise spans across manufacturers and distributors of automobiles, powersports products, farm and construction equipment, marine products, airplanes, and other types of motor vehicles.1

Career Highlights

American Honda Motor Co., Inc.: From 2001 to 2015, Rich worked at the U.S. headquarters of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. As the primary in-house lawyer, he was responsible for dealer franchise and commercial legal issues for the Honda and Acura auto divisions nationwide. His focus areas included:

Franchise law
Antitrust law
Negotiation and documentation of various agreements
Digital media transactions
Management of complex commercial litigation, including nationwide class actions
Counseling executive management on day-to-day business operations1

Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.: In 2015, Rich was hired to establish the first-ever U.S.-based legal department for Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd., a Fortune Global 500 manufacturer. As General Counsel of the Americas, he led a full-service legal department supporting 46 SEI subsidiary companies throughout North and South America.1

Current Role

At Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLP, Rich Otera serves as the founding Managing Partner of the Los Angeles office. His role leverages his extensive experience in franchise and distribution law, particularly in the automotive and motor vehicle industries.1 2

Rich Otera is recognized as a national authority in his field, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to his current position at Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLP.