Job Description
The General Counsel is URI’s chief legal advisor, responsible for overseeing the organization’s legal affairs and participating in the ongoing strategic planning process as a member of the senior management team. Key functional areas include corporate governance, finance, contracts (including IT), insurance, real estate, litigation support, and employment.
Support the legal and compliance infrastructure necessary to ensure that the company’s ongoing growth phase succeeds. Oversight of all legal work related to URI’s 13 property (and growing) real estate portfolio, including negotiation of term sheets, drafting of financial instruments, writing of leases, and review of vendor agreements, including construction contracts. As Chief Compliance Officer, ensure that appropriate trainings, investigations, and program corrective strategies are in place and appropriately implemented. Act as management liaison with the Board’s Legal/HR and Governance Committees, including support of committee work plan development and execution. Work in tandem with the HR division to support implementation of best employment practices and litigation risk management measures. Oversee and advise on matters relating to corporate governance, financial controls, and insurance. Advise senior management and other staff on legal issues relating to programmatic affairs, including legislative and regulatory issues affecting the organization. Oversee organization’s internal policy development. Monitor and manage any litigation, including responding to subpoenas and working with outside counsel. Develop and oversee volunteer and/or internship programs. Oversee and develop relationships with pro bono attorneys.
Perform other duties and projects as assigned by the President/CEO.
Essential Job Requirements
10 years of legal experience as a licensed attorney with admission to the New York State Bar; Senior managerial and executive experience, preferably in nonprofit, public policy or government; Strong legal, analytical, administrative, and written and oral communication skills; Excellent interpersonal skills with experience collaborating in a multi-disciplinary, diverse team; Ability to work independently, assess priorities, take initiative, handle multiple assignments, and meet deadlines; Willingness to “roll up the sleeves” to meet all of the company’s legal work needs, even if resources are tight; Sense of humor; and Demonstrated commitment to public and/or human services.
