VP, General Counsel

Priority Dispatch Corp.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is seeking a strategic leader to serve as Vice President, General Counsel. This executive will guide senior leadership and the board on diverse legal matters, aligning strategies with the organization's mission and risk framework.

Key responsibilities include overseeing litigation, contracts, IP, and regulatory compliance, while managing external counsel and mentoring a talented legal team in a fast-paced nonprofit setting.

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school.
• Active bar membership in good standing.
• Minimum 10 years of legal experience, preferably in corporate/governance roles.
• Nonprofit or mission-driven sector experience is highly desirable.
• Proven leadership and team-management capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic legal guidance to executive leadership and the board on diverse legal issues.
• Develop and implement legal strategies aligned with organizational goals and risk management.
• Oversee litigation, contracts, IP, and regulatory compliance matters.
• Manage external counsel and coordinate cost-effective legal services.
• Lead and mentor the legal team and collaborate with cross-functional partners.
• Represent YMCA in negotiations and legal proceedings to protect organizational interests.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Regulatory compliance

Contract negotiation

Governance

Communication

Education

JD (Juris Doctor)

Bar admission

Tools

Westlaw

LexisNexis

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job 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.Required 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.