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Position Summary
Position Title: General Counsel
Spelman College, a renowned historically Black college and global leader in the education of women of African descent, is dedicated to academic excellence in the liberal arts and sciences. The College cultivates the intellectual, creative, ethical, and leadership development of its students, empowering them through diverse learning modalities to engage the many cultures of the world and inspires a commitment to positive social change.
Spelman College is seeking an experienced and dynamic General Counsel to serve as its chief legal officer. Reporting directly to the President, this strategic leader will provide expert legal advice to the President, senior leadership and Board of Trustees. The General Counsel will play a critical role in safeguarding the College’s legal interests, ensuring institutional compliance, and proactively managing legal risk across all areas of operation.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
In addition to providing counsel to the College on a wide variety of legal issues and overseeing utilization of outsourced legal services, other areas of responsibility include collaboration with other members of the leadership team in regard to: the formulation, interpretation and implementation of College policies; review of College contracts, agreements and other legal documents; and the management of actual or threatened litigation in which the College is involved.
Legal Advisory Services:
- Provide strategic legal counsel and guidance to the President, Board of Trustees, senior administrators, and other campus officials on a wide range of legal matters affecting the institution.
- Manage and direct the work of In-house paralegal, outside counsel, and other legal resources to represent the College’s interests effectively and efficiently in legal matters.
- Advise on the legal aspects of topics including academic freedom, compliance with regulations (ADA, FERPA, Title IX, etc.), contracts, employment law, faculty concerns, financing, governance, policies, intellectual property, litigation, and more.
Legal Compliance And Risk Management
- Monitor and assess legal and regulatory developments impacting higher education, ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and accreditation standards.
- Identify legal risks and develop strategies to mitigate potential liabilities.
Policy Development And Review
- Collaborate on developing and implementing policies that promote ethical conduct, transparency, and integrity.
- Participate in defining institutional policies, procedures, and contracts for legal compliance and industry standards.
Litigation Management And Dispute Resolution
- Manage legal disputes, litigation, and regulatory proceedings, including coordination with external counsel.
- Represent the College in negotiations and dispute resolution processes to achieve favorable outcomes.
Intellectual Property And Technology Transfer
- Provide guidance on intellectual property matters and facilitate technology transfer activities.
Required Qualifications
- Juris Doctor (JD) and active bar membership in Georgia.
- Minimum of 10 years legal experience, especially advising higher education clients or working in higher education.
- Deep knowledge of employment law, compliance, intellectual property, and policies governing higher education.
- Strong analytical, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience supporting governing boards is highly desirable.
Additional Details
- This position requires onsite work, not eligible for remote work.
- Travel: 1%-25%
- Full-time, exempt, with one vacancy.
- Open date: 05/21/2025; not open until filled.
- Spelman College is an EEO/Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran/Title IX Employer and participates in E-Verify. Campus is smoke-free.