Senior Director of Strategic Litigation

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

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation reimbursement

Location premium (DC)

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

The Southern Environmental Law Center, headquartered in Charlottesville, VA, seeks a Litigation Strategy Director to lead strategy, standards, and professional development for its top-tier litigation program. This senior role works across offices to align litigation with policy and advocacy goals.

The Director will oversee training, develop test cases, and coordinate with partners while maintaining rigorous ethics and professional standards. Relocation support is available.

Qualifications

• Ten or more years of litigation experience with substantial first-chair responsibility.
• Active license to practice law in one of SELC’s states or Washington, D.C.
• Strong judgment in high-stakes litigation decisions, including when to file, settle, or appeal.
• Proven ability to mentor litigators and lead junior through senior attorneys.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Chief Program Officer to integrate litigation into program plans and advocacy.
• Advise on litigation strategy, strengthen filings, and prepare for arguments.
• Approve major litigation decisions and oversee board updates.
• Anticipate legal developments and advise on ethics and conflicts.
• Supervise and mentor attorneys to build sound judgment and advocacy.

Skills

Litigation experience

First-chair responsibility

Strategic leadership

Communication skills

Team mentorship

Travel willingness

Education

Active law license (DC/MD/VA/NC/SC/GA)

Job description

The Southern Environmental Law Center, headquartered in Charlottesville, VA, seeks a Litigation Strategy Director to lead strategy, standards, and professional development for its top-tier litigation program. This senior role works across offices to align litigation with policy and advocacy goals.

The Director will oversee training, develop test cases, and coordinate with partners while maintaining rigorous ethics and professional standards. Relocation support is available.