Litigation Strategy Director - Hybrid Role

McPhail Sanchez, LLC; Richmond, Northern (VA, KY); Hybrid; USD 188,000 - 203,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation reimbursement

10% location premium (DC)

PSLF eligibility

Job summary

The Southern Environmental Law Center seeks a seasoned Litigation Strategy Director to lead strategy, standards, and professional development across its offices. This exempt, full-time role reports to the Chief Program Officer and collaborates with senior leaders on high-impact environmental litigation.

The Director will advise on major decisions, supervise litigators, and coordinate with partners nationally. A strong record in complex civil litigation and a commitment to equity are essential.

Qualifications

• Ten or more years of litigation experience, including first-chair responsibility in complex civil litigation.
• Active license to practice law, or willingness to seek admission in one of SELC’s states or Washington, D.C.
• Sound judgment in high-stakes litigation decisions and strategy.
• Experience developing litigators and mentoring junior attorneys.
• Ability to travel to SELC offices and other locations as needed.
• Commitment to an equitable and inclusive workplace across the region.
• Experience integrating litigation with policy advocacy is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Chief Program Officer to make litigation central to SELC’s plans.
• Advise on litigation strategy, significant filings, and proceedings.
• Oversee litigation approvals and test-case development.
• Guide ethics, conflicts, and professional standards with General Counsel.
• Supervise and mentor attorneys across SELC.
• Set priorities for litigation training and professional development.
• Coordinate strategy with national and regional partners and clients.
• Represent SELC’s litigation work with donors, press, and the public.

Skills

Litigation experience

Bar admission possible

Legal judgment

Interpersonal skills

Travel willingness

Equity & inclusion

Job description

The Southern Environmental Law Center seeks a seasoned Litigation Strategy Director to lead strategy, standards, and professional development across its offices. This exempt, full-time role reports to the Chief Program Officer and collaborates with senior leaders on high-impact environmental litigation.

The Director will advise on major decisions, supervise litigators, and coordinate with partners nationally. A strong record in complex civil litigation and a commitment to equity are essential.