Description:

Company Overview:
AMS Group, Inc. is a leading distributor, manufacturer and supplier of engineered aerospace and defense systems, components, and subsystems, providing innovative technologies and logistics support to defense and security markets. We are a rapidly growing small business (100 employees) with our headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia and offices in Stevensville, Maryland; Kearneysville, West Virginia; San Diego and Torrance, California. AMS Group, Inc. and its business units are committed to conducting business in a legal, ethical, and socially responsible manner. We consistently focus on creating value and innovation to benefit our partners, clients and customers while also ensuring the health, safety and welfare of our employees and the communities in which we operate. As we continue to grow, we are seeking an experienced Legal Counsel to work within our corporate office, supporting our whole AMS Group business.

Essential Responsibilities:
The Legal Counsel is expected to work in very close partnership with our current VP Contracts & Compliance. This partnership is intended to share legal and commercial workload appropriately as they partner to provide support and oversight across the whole of AMS Group, Inc.

The legal counsel organizationally reports directly to the CEO. It is expected though, that the Legal Counsel will directly support the Chairman and principal owner of AMS Group, Inc. on all legal matters relating to the business or any new business ventures that the Chairman is considering.

Legal Advisory & Counsel:

Provide legal advice and guidance on a wide range of business operations, including corporate governance, employment law, intellectual property, data privacy, and commercial contracts.
Partner with senior leadership, HR, finance, and other business units to develop and implement legal strategies that align with organizational goals.
Assist in the interpretation and application of laws, regulations, and industry standards that affect the company.

Contract Drafting & Negotiation:

Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of contracts, including client agreements, vendor contracts, non-disclosure agreements, licensing agreements, joint ventures, and mergers & acquisitions.
Ensure contracts are legally sound, protect the company's interests, and minimize risk exposure.
Support business teams in understanding contractual obligations and managing contractual relationships.

Litigation & Dispute Resolution:

Manage and oversee litigation and dispute resolution processes, including collaborating with external counsel when needed.
Analyze and assess legal risks associated with ongoing or potential litigation or regulatory issues.
Advise on settlement strategies and risk mitigation.

Compliance & Risk Management:

Monitor changes in laws and regulations to ensure the company is in compliance with all applicable legal requirements.
Develop and implement internal policies and procedures to mitigate legal and regulatory risks.
Assist in conducting internal investigations and audits to identify and address potential legal and compliance issues.
Partner with Risk Management Stakeholders and Finance to review and interpret insurance policies, advise on coverage gaps, and support the handling of insurance claims to protect the company's financial and legal interests.

Corporate Governance:

Provide legal support for corporate governance, including board meetings, shareholder communications, and compliance with corporate formalities.
Assist in maintaining company records, bylaws, and other corporate documentation.
Help ensure compliance with public company regulations, if applicable.

Training & Education:

Provide legal training and educational resources to staff on relevant topics such as compliance, data protection, and contract management.
Promote a culture of legal awareness and risk management within the organization.

Requirements:
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Minimum Requirements:

Strong understanding of corporate law, federal and commercial contracts, labor and employment law, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance.
Excellent negotiation, drafting, and communication skills.
Ability to analyze complex legal issues and provide clear, practical advice.
Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships with colleagues and external parties.
Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and meet deadlines.
Highest degree of integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.

Work Experience / Education
Education:

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
Admission to the Bar in the relevant jurisdiction(s).

Experience:

10+ years of legal experience in-house or at a law firm, with a focus on corporate law, commercial contracts, or a related field.
Experience in handling corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and dispute resolution is preferred.
Experience in the Aerospace & Defense industry with a strong knowledge of Federal Acquisition Regulation and US Corporate Law
Experience in Labor and Employment Law in various US jurisdictions, including VA, MD, and CA.
Mergers & Acquisition experience within the Government contractor, A&D secto