In-House General Legal Counsel

M Group of Companies; Barrie; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading firm in real estate is seeking an experienced In-House General Counsel to provide legal advice and strategic guidance across operations. This role involves managing legal processes, negotiating contracts, and overseeing compliance in a dynamic business environment. Ideal candidates will have a JD, extensive experience in real estate law, and a passion for aligning legal strategy with business goals.

Benefits

Professional development support

Flexible work-life balance

Values-driven culture

Qualifications

• Licensed to practice law in Ontario is required.
• 5+ years legal experience in real estate and corporate law.
• Familiarity with REITs and joint venture structures is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic legal guidance across corporate and real estate matters.
• Draft, review, and negotiate various contracts.
• Manage the legal department and oversee compliance processes.

Skills

Risk Mitigation

Regulatory Compliance

Contract Negotiation

Leadership

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Tools

Microsoft Word

Outlook

Excel

Job description

As The M Group continues to grow, we are excited to expand our in-house legal capabilities with a new opportunity for an experienced In-House General Counsel . This is a strategic leadership role ideal for a legal professional with a strong background in real estate investment, corporate law, and regulatory compliance.

If you are passionate about aligning legal strategy with organizational purpose, and you're excited by the opportunity to help shape our evolving real estate, development, and partnership landscapewe want to hear from you.

Your Role & Impact

As In-House General Counsel, youll be a key legal advisor across our operations, working closely with executive leadership to navigate the legal landscape of real estate acquisitions, leasing, contracts, corporate structure, and joint ventures. You will provide proactive counsel, mitigate risks, manage legal processes, and help drive operational excellence.

What Youll Do

• Provide strategic legal guidance across corporate, commercial, and real estate matters.
• Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of contracts (leases, purchase agreements, loan docs, joint venture terms).
• Collaborate with internal teams on risk mitigation, compliance, and legal training.
• Oversee the legal department, including documentation systems, and maintain corporate records.
• Manage legal checklists, compliance calendars, and provide due diligence support.
• Represent the organization in dealings with external counsel, municipal bodies, and stakeholders.
• Interpret legislation and communicate business impacts to executive leadership.

Qualifications

Must Have :

• Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent and licensed to practice law in Ontario.
• 5+ years of legal experience in real estate law, corporate law, and contract negotiation.
• Understanding of REITs, limited partnerships, and joint venture structures.
• Comfortable managing complex legal matters and multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and basic Excel; experience with ONLand / Teraview.

Nice to Have :

• Experience working as in-house counsel.
• Familiarity with legal software and real estate platforms like Yardi.
• Background in business or finance.

Why Join Us?

• Youll have direct influence on key strategic decisions.
• You'll help shape legal infrastructure for a growing and values-driven real estate company.
• We support professional development and recognize the importance of flexibility and work-life balance.
• Be part of a culture that values doing the right thing with people at the center.

AODA

Thank you for your interest in The M Group of Companies.

Only those applicants who are selected for interviews will be contacted. We are committed to providing equal opportunities for persons with disabilities. Accommodation is available at all stages of the recruitment process, at the candidates request.

Use of AI

Please note that your application and any related materials may be reviewed with the assistance of AI technology. All hiring decisions are ultimately made by our human resources and hiring teams.