General Counsel

The General Counsel (GC), plays a key role in advising management and the Board on all legal matters and prudent governance.  The GC works with management and outside counsel/expertise to ensure that the organization has policies, and follows practices, which provide the proper balance between protecting the organization's assets and reputation, while also supporting its pursuit of programmatic success.  The GC serves as Best Friends' primary contact with outside legal counsel, works closely with the Risk Management function, and represents the organization as an officer of the corporation in matters relating to contracts, agreements, litigation, etc...when appropriate.  The GC staffs the Board Secretary in the fulfillment of her responsibilities as relates to corporate governance. 

Key Responsibilities:

Maintain organization-wide policies, including review and advice related thereto.
Design, implement, and administer efficient contracting practices including: 1) standard forms of contract for execution without need for legal review and 2) training and advice on complex contract matters.
Work with management in Development, Finance, HR and throughout the organization to ensure timely filing of registrations, reports and other documents to ensure compliance with laws (state, federal and local) required of the organization in jurisdictions in which it has nexus.
Monitor, advise and report to the Audit Committee and SLT on all material legal matters including threatened or outstanding litigation, policy violation, and changes in legislation affecting the organization.
Serve as a resource to management, and as a member of organization teams, on a variety of topics (e.g. company acquisitions/mergers, complex business transactions, grant agreements, nonprofit law, etc...) when needed/requested.
Work to ensure the organization has effective outside legal representation where and when needed, and work to build a network of firms with expertise relevant to the organization. Establish pro-bono arrangements when possible.
Work with the Director of Safety and Risk Management, insurance companies, their attorneys, and others to manage insurance claims and advise re: arbitration, mediation, settlement and litigation when claims are presented.
Advise re: conflicts-of-interest to avoid if possible, manage if necessary, and disclose as required by IRS and other regulations.
Attend and serve as primary staff to the Secretary of the Board in organizing, documenting and executing Board meeting activities.
Serve as an initial point-of-contact for legal and policy compliance questions from staff, volunteers and Board members re: Best Friends' matters.
Represent the organization