General Counsel

Until economic and social rules work for all Americans, they’re not working. Inspired by the legacy of Franklin and Eleanor, the Roosevelt Institute reimagines the rules to create a nation where everyone enjoys a fair share of our collective prosperity. We are a 21st-century think tank bringing together multiple generations of thinkers and leaders to help drive key economic and social debates and have local and national impact. We advance this mission through the work of our staff, fellows, and network of students and alumni.

Overview of the Position

The General Counsel is responsible for providing timely and appropriate legal guidance on a wide array of legal, political, financial, and reputational issues.

The General Counsel supports the work of the Institute by navigating the legal issues that arise as it pursues its objectives and serving as a resource to various Roosevelt stakeholders (e.g., senior management and the executive team; board leadership; program teams).

This is a part-time position located in our midtown Manhattan headquarters. Initially, the position will require working 3-4 days per week. There is the possibility that the position expands into a full-time role. Whether full or part-time, there is the option of working remotely for a day or two each week.

Roles and Responsibilities

The General Counsel is a very hands-on role, overseeing all legal matters of the organization.

This position reports to the Executive Vice President. The General Counsel will interact directly with all members of senior management, as well as many other staff members of the organization.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

· Provide proactive guidance on legal questions and on legal implications of all organizational matters.

· Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

· Monitor and track lobbying activities.

· Advise on corporate form and governance questions; trademarking and intellectual property issues; finance and HR matters; and all interactions between the Institute (a 501c3 organization) and our 501c4 partner, Roosevelt Forward.

· Help minimizes organizational risks through proactive, regular assessment and by working with appropriate teams to create plans to minimize risk.

· Review and develop contracts, MOUs, and other agreements with outside entities.

· Ensure, with the Human Resources Director and senior management team, that personnel policies are up to date in all employment states and consistently applied.

· Advise on new and existing personnel matters in conjunction with the management team.

· Serve as the main liaison with outside legal counsel on all matters.

Qualifications

· Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school and admitted to practice in New York

· Minimum 5 years of work experience, including practicing with an established law firm advising organizations (ideal non-profits) required

· Strong commitment to progressive values and public policy

· Experience with corporate governance issues

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills

· Knowledge of statutes, rules, and regulations pertaining to 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) nonprofit organizations

· Proficient understanding of organizational sensitivities

· Impeccable ability to maintain confidentiality

· Proficient legal experience in employment law preferred