VP, General Counsel

Ymcachicago; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The Crown Family YMCA in Chicago, IL seeks a strategic VP, General Counsel to oversee legal affairs, advise senior management, and protect the organization’s interests through proactive risk management.

You will lead a legal team, manage external counsel, handle contracts and IP, ensure compliance with federal, state and local laws, and guide governance discussions with the board.

Qualifications

• JD degree from an accredited law school.
• Active state bar membership in good standing.
• 10+ years in corporate law, governance, and compliance, preferably in nonprofit or related sector.
• Experience leading legal teams and external counsel.
• Strong leadership, analytical, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic legal advice to the executive team and board.
• Develop and implement legal strategies to protect assets and reputation.
• Oversee litigation, contracts, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
• Manage external counsel and drive cost-effective legal services.
• Lead a high-performing legal team and collaborate cross-functionally.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Strategic legal advice

Communication with executives

Regulatory compliance

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Bar admission in good standing

Job description

# VP, General CounselHot JobCrown Family YMCA - Chicago, IL 60607## OverviewSalary Range$150,000.00 - $180,000.00 Salary/yearPosition TypeFull TimeEducation LevelMaster Degree or equivalent or higher## DescriptionJob Purpose: - The VP, General Counsel at YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is responsible for overseeing and managing the legal affairs of the organization. This role involves providing strategic legal advice to senior management, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and safeguarding the organization's interests through effective risk management and legal strategies. Key Responsibilities: - Provide expert legal counsel and guidance to the executive leadership team and board of directors on a wide range of legal issues affecting the organization. - Develop and implement legal strategies that align with the organization's goals and objectives, ensuring the protection of its assets and reputation. - Oversee the management of all legal matters, including litigation, contracts, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance. - Ensure the organization's compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations, and advise on potential legal risks and liabilities. - Manage external legal counsel and coordinate legal services to ensure cost-effective and efficient legal support. - Lead and mentor the legal team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. - Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support various initiatives and projects, providing legal insights and solutions. - Represent the organization in legal proceedings and negotiations, advocating for its interests and ensuring favorable outcomes. - Stay abreast of legal developments and trends that may impact the organization, advising on necessary adjustments to policies and practices.## QualificationsRequired Education: - Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school. - Membership in good standing with the state bar association. Required Experience: - Minimum of 10 years of legal experience, with substantial exposure to corporate law, compliance, and governance. - Proven track record in a senior legal position, preferably as a General Counsel or equivalent role. - Experience working with non-profit organizations or in a similar sector is highly desirable. - Demonstrated experience in managing a legal team and overseeing legal operations. - Extensive experience in contract negotiation, risk management, and regulatory compliance. Required Skills and Abilities: - Strong leadership and management skills with the ability to lead a diverse team effectively. - Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to provide strategic legal advice. - Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact with senior management and board members. - High ethical standards and integrity, with a commitment to the mission and values of the YMCA. - Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities. - Proficiency in legal research tools and software, as well as Microsoft Office Suite.