Description:
Position Summary:We are seeking a General Counsel who is more than just a legal expert — someone who can serve as a trusted strategic partner to the C-suite. This role will be deeply embedded in organizational decision-making, working closely with leadership on initiatives related to legal compliance, expansion planning, risk management, policy development, and strategic growth.
You'll act as the go-to legal and operational advisor, helping guide the institution through complex regulatory landscapes, contract negotiations, accreditation requirements, and multi-state educational operations. If you thrive in dynamic environments and want a seat at the table to shape how an education institution grows, this is the role for you.
Key Responsibilities:
- Serve as chief legal advisor to the CEO and executive leadership on all legal matters affecting the organization.
- Oversee legal strategy related to corporate governance, partnerships, real estate, contracts, employment, accreditation, and regulatory issues.
- Lead and manage compliance with federal, state, and accreditation bodies, including Department of Education, NYSED, ABHES, and other healthcare education standards.
- Support institutional growth initiatives, including mergers, acquisitions, campus expansions, and program development.
- Draft, review, and negotiate complex contracts, MOUs, and vendor agreements.
- Anticipate and mitigate legal risks while creating scalable, proactive policies and practices.
- Serve as liaison with external counsel as needed.
- Collaborate with HR, Finance, and Academics to ensure consistent application of policies and institutional values.
- Provide legal training and guidance to staff and leadership as needed.
What We're Looking For:
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and active license to practice law in New York.
- Minimum 7–10 years of experience in legal practice, preferably with exposure to education, healthcare, or nonprofit sectors.
- Demonstrated experience advising senior executives and participating in strategic planning and organizational leadership.
- Expertise in compliance, contracts, employment law, and regulatory affairs.
- Familiarity with postsecondary education, healthcare regulation, or accreditation processes a strong plus.
- Ability to balance big-picture strategy with roll-up-your-sleeves execution.
- Proactive, clear communicator who can simplify legal jargon and offer practical solutions.
- Trustworthy, discreet, and comfortable in a high-autonomy, fast-moving environment.
