JOB ID:
Contact: Sharon Shen
A distinguished private equity firm specializing in the acquisition, development, and operation of premium commercial and high‑end residential real estate. With an active, hands‑on strategy, the firm is not passive capital but operational partners and developers who create landmark properties. The company leverages deep expertise to build and scale distinctive portfolio companies focused on luxury residential communities and premier commercial spaces.
General Counsel Position Overview
As the first in‑house General Counsel, you will be the cornerstone of the legal and risk management strategy. This high‑impact, hands‑on role positions you as a key strategic advisor to the CEO and executive leadership, shaping business decisions while protecting the company’s interests. You will build the legal function from the ground up, balancing sophisticated legal oversight with a pragmatic, entrepreneurial spirit that drives success.
General Counsel Key Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary legal advisor to the CEO, executive team, and board on all corporate matters, strategic initiatives, and overall risk management.
- Provide practical, business‑minded legal solutions that support aggressive growth while mitigating risk.
- Ensure robust corporate governance and compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
- Draft, review, and negotiate a wide array of high‑stakes agreements, including:
- Project Contracts: EPC, Design‑Build, PPP, and Joint Venture agreements.
- Project Documentation: Subcontractor, supplier, consultant, and vendor agreements.
- Corporate Agreements: Loan documents, NDAs, and other commercial contracts.
- Ensure all contracts comply with industry standards (e.g., FIDIC, AIA, NEC) and company policy.
- Oversee contract administration, including modifications, change orders, and claims management.
- Manage all pre‑litigation disputes, including claims related to construction defects, delays, and payment.
- Develop and drive strategy for arbitration, mediation, and litigation, efficiently managing outside counsel.
- Represent the company in claims and negotiations with government agencies, partners, and vendors.
- Monitor and advise on regulatory changes impacting large‑scale infrastructure and real estate development.
- Oversee project licensing, permitting, and environmental compliance (OSHA, zoning, etc.).
- Advise on insurance, bonding, and indemnity strategies for major projects.
- Support financing activities, capital raising, and lender relationships.
- Create and implement company‑wide policies, playbooks, and training programs for project, procurement, and finance teams.
- Act as a liaison with government entities, regulatory agencies, and industry associations.
General Counsel Qualifications & Skills
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree with an active membership in good standing with the Washington State Bar.
- 8–10 years of progressive legal experience, preferably a mix of reputable law‑firm training and in‑house counsel experience within construction, real‑estate development, or infrastructure.
- Deep substantive expertise in drafting and negotiating EPC, Design‑Build, PPP, and construction contracts. Familiarity with public procurement and government contracts is a plus.
- Proven experience managing litigation, dispute resolution (mediation/arbitration), and complex claims.
- Exceptional business acumen with the ability to translate legal advice into actionable business strategy.
- Entrepreneurial and hands‑on mindset; thrives in a lean, fast‑paced environment and is willing to be both a strategist and a doer.
- Outstanding negotiation, communication, and leadership skills.
General Counsel Salary And Benefits
- Competitive Compensation Package: a salary between $180,000 and $220,000 plus an annual performance‑based bonus opportunity.
- Comprehensive Benefits: full medical, dental, and vision coverage, alongside generous paid time off.
- Foundational Impact & Growth: a high‑visibility role that allows you to build the firm’s legal foundation and scale the portfolio. Significant professional growth and the autonomy to shape your function.
- Dynamic Culture: an entrepreneurial, collaborative, and results‑driven environment where your contributions are recognized and valued.