General Counsel

Job Description

UNIVERSITY OF ST. THOMAS

GENERAL COUNSEL

The University of St. Thomas, a Catholic liberal arts institution in Houston, Texas (UST), invites applications for the position of General Counsel.

Interested candidates must submit a complete application, resume, and cover letter demonstrating their interest in the position. Cover letters should highlight the applicant's familiarity with the coveted teachings and principles of Ex Corde Ecclesiae and how the applicant would support and uphold these values as General Counsel for the University.

The maximum salary for this position (full-time) will range between $185k - $250k, depending on qualifications and experience.

SUMMARY

The General Counsel will serve as the primary contact and coordinator for the University on legal and compliance matters. This may include consulting with internal subject matter experts such as Security, HR, and the Vice President of Academic Affairs, as well as outside counsel. The incumbent will also oversee compliance, policy administration, and policy management. This position reports directly to the President of the University.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION

Advisory Support to University Departments

People Matters

Serve as a legal advisor to various departments on matters related to student conduct and governance
Support Payroll on compensation matters
Support Human Resources on employee relations matters, including Title VII and Title IX matters
Support Academic Affairs in Faculty Contracts and Immigration Matters.

Contracts and Commercial Matters

Review, draft, and negotiate contracts, and coordinate legal support for real and intellectual property matters as they arise (examples: trust & estates, trademarks).

Policy Administration and Oversight

Responsible for all aspects of policy administration, including drafting, circulating drafts for reviews, identifying and consulting stakeholders, tracking revisions, finalizing drafts, publishing final drafts, and tracking renewal dates. Provide guidance and counsel in responding to questions and policy interpretation on an ad hoc basis

Compliance Matters

Work with departments throughout the University as needed on compliance-related training
Provide guidance and support on Title IX, Clery Act, and other compliance matters, reporting, and government agency engagement (may serve as a Title IX coordinator, Investigator, or Decision Maker)
Provide updates and guidance on government legislation.

Legal Operations

Manage legal documents and record retention
Manage legal services vendors (example: outside counsel) and budget
Assist with the development and administration of policies and related business processes and procedures (examples: procurement and contracting processes)
The above is intended to serve as a summary, not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities required of the position. UST may amend or change the responsibilities, duties, and requirements of this position at any time.

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE, SKILLS

A Juris Doctorate + a minimum of 5+ years of legal experience required
Previous experience in higher education strongly preferred; previous experience representing a Catholic institution of higher education is a plus
Ability to independently advise on Title IX matters
Ability to leverage professional associations, professional network, technology, and similar resources to efficiently and cost-effectively stay updated on relevant legal developments and advise the university accordingly
General familiarity with non-profit and higher education law, employment law, Title IX, and Clery Act compliance
A strong understanding of religious freedom matters, especially as they relate to faith-based higher education.
Must be a member of the State Bar of Texas in good standing
MS Office proficiency required

The University of Saint Thomas is committed to the religious, ethical, and intellectual traditions of Catholic higher education. As permitted by law, practicing Catholics who will advance the mission of the school are preferred for this position. However, the University invites all qualified applicants to apply.

The University of St. Thomas is an Equal Opportunity Employer

About the Employer

Catholic university located in the heart of Houston, TX.