Description:

Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you.

Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.

Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all?

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
As an innovation leader, we look for ambitious, forward thinking, open-minded and well-rounded individuals to join our global team. Located in our Denver office, the Vice President, Legal, Merger & Acquisition will be responsible for managing the legal aspects of corporate transactions, including acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures, and investments. This position partners closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to drive strategic growth while ensuring legal compliance and risk mitigation.

Key Responsibilities:
Lead M&A Transactions End-to-End

Oversee legal support for acquisitions, divestitures, and strategic investments globally
Guide deals from initial strategy and due diligence through execution and post-close integration
Structure transactions to align with business, financial, and legal objectives

Legal Advisory & Risk Management

Advise senior leadership on risks, deal structures, and regulatory implications.
Identify legal issues early and develop mitigation strategies
Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and corporate governance standards

Due Diligence Oversight

With Corporate Development, lead legal due diligence for target companies and transactions
Coordinate with internal teams (finance, tax, HR, compliance) and external counsel
Evaluate contractual, litigation, regulatory, and operational risks

Drafting & Negotiation

Structure, draft, and negotiate:
Purchase agreements
Joint venture and partnership agreements
NDAs and ancillary deal documents.
Lead negotiations with counterparties and external legal teams

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Partner with Corporate Development, Finance, Tax, Treasury, HR, and Compliance teams
Align legal strategy with broader corporate growth and integration efforts

Manage External Counsel & Budgets

Select and oversee outside counsel
Manage legal spend and ensure efficient execution of transactions

Post-Merger Integration

Provide legal guidance on integration planning and execution
Ensure alignment of governance, contracts, and regulatory obligations post-close

Leadership & Team Development

Collaborate with legal team members supporting M&A activities
Build scalable processes, playbooks, and best practices for transactions
Track record of effectively counseling and influencing senior executives
Requirements and Preferred Skills

About You:

Juris Doctor (JD) and admission to at least one state bar
Typically 10–12+ years of M&A legal experience (law firm and/or in-house)
Deep expertise in:
Corporate law
M&A transactions (public/private)
Deal structuring and negotiation
Demonstrated leadership experience managing teams and complex deals

Key Skills & Competencies
Strategic Thinking – Aligns Legal Advice with Business Growth Objectives

Negotiation Expertise – Drives Favorable Outcomes in High-Value Transactions
Risk Assessment – Identifies and Mitigates Legal Exposure
Project Management – Manages Multiple Complex Deals Simultaneously
Stakeholder Influence – Engages Executives and Cross-Functional Partners
Communication – Excellent Written and Verbal Skills for Legal and Business Audiences
Team Focus – Works Effectively with Others in The Legal Department and Across Functions to Achieve Company Objectives