Strategic Litigation Director — Hybrid (Relocation Provided)

Siana Law; Nashville, Northern (TN, KY); Hybrid; USD 188,000 - 203,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Environmental Law Center seeks a Litigation Strategy Director to lead and harmonize national litigation strategy across offices. The role requires exceptional legal judgment and the ability to guide high-stakes decisions while mentoring a broad team of litigators.

Reporting to the Chief Program Officer, you’ll influence policy and strategy, coordinate with partners, and represent SELC in donor and public communications. A robust license and willingness to travel are essential.

Qualifications

• Ten+ years of litigation experience including substantial first-chair responsibility in complex civil litigation through trial and appeal.
• Active license to practice law or willingness to seek admission in one of SELC’s states or Washington, D.C.
• Command of administrative law, civil procedure, justiciability, remedies, and professional responsibility.
• Sound judgment in high-stakes litigation decisions including when to file, settle, or appeal.
• Experience developing litigators from junior to senior levels and coaching range to lead counsel.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.
• Ability and willingness to travel to SELC offices and other locations as needed.
• Commitment to creating an equitable and inclusive workplace across the region.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Chief Program Officer and other leaders to make litigation a central part of SELC’s program plans and policy strategy.
• Serve as SELC’s principal advisor on litigation strategy and oversee significant filings and proceedings.
• Approve novel or significant litigation decisions and oversee litigation approvals and board updates.
• Anticipate legal developments and guide teams on emerging risks in coordination with the General Counsel.
• Supervise and mentor litigators across SELC to build sound judgment and advocacy skills.
• Set priorities for litigation training and professional development, fostering legal excellence and collaboration.
• Coordinate strategy with national and regional partners and manage relationships with clients and outside counsel.
• Represent SELC’s litigation work to donors, the press, and the public in collaboration with Communications and Development.

Skills

Litigation experience

First-chair responsibility

Trial and appellate experience

Travel willingness

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Education

Law license

Job description

Southern Environmental Law Center seeks a Litigation Strategy Director to lead and harmonize national litigation strategy across offices. The role requires exceptional legal judgment and the ability to guide high-stakes decisions while mentoring a broad team of litigators.

Reporting to the Chief Program Officer, you’ll influence policy and strategy, coordinate with partners, and represent SELC in donor and public communications. A robust license and willingness to travel are essential.