Chief Litigation Strategy Leader

Southern Environmental Law Center; Richmond (VA); Hybrid; USD 188,000 - 203,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation reimbursement

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

The Southern Environmental Law Center seeks a Litigation Strategy Director, a senior leader responsible for setting strategy, standards, and professional development to maintain SELC's top-tier litigation program.

The Director reports to the Chief Program Officer and collaborates with leaders across offices to shape policy-driven litigation, mentor attorneys, and ensure ethical, rigorous advocacy nationwide. This role offers remote flexibility and relocation support.

Qualifications

• Ten or more years of litigation experience, including first-chair responsibility in complex civil cases.
• Active license to practice law in one of SELC's six states or Washington, D.C.
• Strong knowledge of civil procedure, remedies, and professional responsibility.
• Sound judgment in high-stakes litigation decisions (filing, settlement, appeal).
• Proven track record developing litigators and mentoring junior to senior attorneys.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with diverse stakeholders.
• Willingness to travel to SELC offices as needed.
• Commitment to an equitable and inclusive workplace across the region.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Chief Program Officer to center litigation in program plans and advocacy.
• Advise teams on litigation strategy and significant filings; prepare for important proceedings.
• Approve major litigation decisions and assignments, guiding test cases and precedent.
• Anticipate legal developments; guide teams on risks and ethics with GC.
• Supervise and mentor attorneys, building sound judgment and advocacy skills.
• Set priorities for litigation training and foster excellence and collaboration.
• Coordinate strategy with national partners and maintain client and coalition relations.
• Represent SELC's litigation work with donors, press, and the public with accurate narratives.

Skills

Litigation experience

License to practice law

Strategic leadership

Communication skills

Travel willingness

Job description

The Southern Environmental Law Center seeks a Litigation Strategy Director, a senior leader responsible for setting strategy, standards, and professional development to maintain SELC's top-tier litigation program.

The Director reports to the Chief Program Officer and collaborates with leaders across offices to shape policy-driven litigation, mentor attorneys, and ensure ethical, rigorous advocacy nationwide. This role offers remote flexibility and relocation support.