Employment Associate General Counsel

Job Overview:

A prestigious law firm is seeking an experienced Associate General Counsel – Employment to provide expert legal counsel on global employment law matters. This position will serve as a critical partner to business leaders, HR professionals, and other legal teams within the firm. The role requires extensive experience in employment law and the ability to handle multi-jurisdictional legal issues, manage risk, and develop policies that align with the firm's global strategy.

Location:

• Washington D.C., District of Columbia

Duties:

• Serve as a key resource for business leaders and HR professionals on multi-jurisdictional issues related to recruiting, hiring, compensation, benefits, performance management, discipline, and termination.

• Provide legal support in developing workplace policies and processes related to compensation, benefits, conduct, discipline, and performance management across jurisdictions.

• Draft employee and partner agreements, including offer letters, employment contracts, independent contractor agreements, and partnership agreements.

• Provide counsel on workplace grievances, pre-litigation claims, and litigation, including investigations, risk assessments, issue resolution, and proactive issue prevention.

• Manage external legal counsel within budget guidelines to achieve desired results.

• Collaborate with professionals across the firm to leverage their expertise when necessary.

• Identify and implement improvements in legal processes, aligning with the firm’s strategy and market best practices.

• Stay informed on evolving legal issues through continuing legal education and active participation in relevant bar and professional associations.

Requirements:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.

• Admission to the state bar in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.

• Minimum of 10 years of legal practice experience in employment counseling and litigation, ideally in a law firm or in-house environment. In-house experience at a multinational law firm or corporation is beneficial.

• Extensive knowledge of U.S. employment laws, regulations, and related claims/litigation. International experience is a plus.

• Experience in conducting and supervising internal investigations, including managing electronic discovery.

• Proven ability to draft a wide range of workplace-related agreements and policies.

• Experience managing litigation and overseeing external counsel.

• Strong leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills.

• Effective problem-solving abilities, capable of finding creative and sustainable solutions.

• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and deadlines.

• Ability to work collaboratively and build relationships across diverse teams.

• High ethical standards and integrity.

• Ability to manage shifting priorities and work under pressure.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited institution.

Certifications:

• Admission to the state bar in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.

Skills:

• Expertise in U.S. employment law and regulations.

• Strong leadership and managerial skills.

• Proficiency in drafting complex employment-related documents and policies.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong project management and organizational capabilities.

• Ability to influence, negotiate, and network effectively across departments.

• Critical thinking and the ability to solve complex legal issues creatively.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary with merit-based bonuses and raises.

• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, and a health savings account.

• 401(k) plan and profit-sharing opportunities.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) program.

Great D.C. office of national firm. The D.C. office of this firm has hired some high-profile partners recently and is growing in numerous areas. Excellent reputation, excellent work, and a collegial atmosphere make this firm an attractive opportunity for laterals.