Strategic Counsel & Chief of Staff — Higher Education

Harvard University; Cambridge (MA); Hybrid; USD 160,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off including Paren

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Retirement plans with university"s

Commuter benefits and campus perks

Tuition assistance and reimbursement

Job summary

Harvard University’s Office of the General Counsel seeks a Counsel and Chief of Staff to serve as a strategic partner and trusted advisor to the Vice President and General Counsel (VPGC). The role spans complex higher education practice, strategy and operations, coordinating with the VPGC and senior leadership to oversee a large caseload and cross-cutting initiatives.

The position guides legal workflows, budgets, technology adoption, and project delivery, while maintaining close collaboration

Qualifications

• JD and a minimum of eight years' experience as an attorney in litigation or related practice.
• Admission to practice in Massachusetts or readiness to obtain within one year.
• Strong interpersonal and diplomacy, written and oral communication skills.
• Experience advising higher education or complex organizations.
• Ability to prioritize a high volume of sensitive matters with good judgment.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and support in collaboration with OGC attorneys.
• Help manage internal legal processes, policy development and compliance.
• Independently provide legal advice on complex matters.
• Collaborate with the VPGC and management to improve legal operations and efficiency.
• Offer strategic guidance for initiatives crossing practice groups and units.
• Coordinate meetings, resources, and project plans to boost productivity.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Higher education experience

Prioritization

Legal technology interest

Workflow improvement

Research & writing

Judgment

Litigation experience

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Massachusetts Bar admission or eligibility within 1 year

Job description

Harvard University’s Office of the General Counsel seeks a Counsel and Chief of Staff to serve as a strategic partner and trusted advisor to the Vice President and General Counsel (VPGC). The role spans complex higher education practice, strategy and operations, coordinating with the VPGC and senior leadership to oversee a large caseload and cross-cutting initiatives.

The position guides legal workflows, budgets, technology adoption, and project delivery, while maintaining close collaboration