Lateral Associate Attorney

A law firm in Chicago, IL, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lateral Associate Attorney with 3-7 years of experience in executive compensation and employee benefits matters. The successful candidate will provide legal guidance on a broad range of issues related to executive compensation and benefits, particularly in the context of corporate transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, and IPOs. This role requires deep knowledge of ERISA, tax, and securities regulations, along with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with other practice groups to provide comprehensive client representation.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide legal counsel and strategic advice on executive compensation and employee benefits matters
• Advise companies, investors, and executives on all aspects of executive compensation, benefits, and ERISA issues
• Work on executive compensation and employee benefits aspects of corporate transactions, including private equity and public company transactions such as mergers, acquisitions, and IPOs
• Assist in the design, implementation, and administration of executive compensation plans and programs, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations
• Draft, review, and negotiate employment agreements, severance agreements, and other compensation-related documents
• Conduct legal research and analysis on relevant laws, regulations, and industry trends affecting executive compensation and employee benefits
• Provide legal advice regarding compliance with federal and state laws, including ERISA, tax laws, and securities regulations
• Collaborate with other practice groups, including tax and corporate law teams, to deliver holistic client solutions
• Assist in the drafting and negotiation of executive employment contracts, equity compensation plans, and deferred compensation arrangements
• Stay updated on emerging legal developments, best practices, and market trends in executive compensation and employee benefits
• Support clients in navigating complex regulatory frameworks, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements

Required Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials
• Admission to the Illinois State Bar (or eligibility to obtain admission promptly)
• 3-7 years of experience handling executive compensation and employee benefits matters, including M&A-related transactional work
• Solid experience advising clients on executive compensation issues, including stock options, equity compensation, and performance-based compensation structures
• Knowledge of ERISA, tax laws, and securities regulations, particularly as they pertain to executive compensation and employee benefits
• Experience drafting and negotiating employment agreements, severance agreements, and compensation-related contracts

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working on the executive compensation and employee benefits aspects of mergers, acquisitions, and IPOs for both private equity and public companies
• Expertise in designing and administering retirement and health and welfare plans
• Demonstrated ability to handle multiple complex transactions and projects in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to draft and negotiate compensation-related documents with precision and attention to detail
• Experience in assisting clients with regulatory compliance, including reporting and disclosure requirements

Education and Certifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school
• Admission to the Illinois State Bar (or eligibility for admission)

Skills and Competencies

• Strong knowledge of executive compensation and employee benefits laws, including ERISA, tax laws, and securities regulations
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain complex legal concepts
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with sharp attention to detail
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and prioritize effectively
• Collaborative mindset, with the ability to work well within a team-oriented environment
• Intellectual curiosity and commitment to staying updated on relevant legal developments and industry trends

This distinguished law firm was established more than 140 years ago and employs a significantly large team of highly skilled attorneys. The firm has several law offices located across the U.S. and abroad. A few of the firm's key practice areas are antitrust law, intellectual property law, and litigation. This law practice is actively involved in pro bono efforts and committed to maintaining diversity at the workplace.