What are the responsibilities and job description for the University Counsel position at Montclair State University?
POSITION OVERVIEW:
University Counsel is the chief legal officer of the University reporting directly to President Jonathan Koppell and provides legal guidance to the President, Vice Presidents, and Board of Trustees. University Counsel serves as the University’s principal liaison with the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office and with outside counsel.
University Counsel will serve as a key advisor to President Koppell as he leads Montclair to be the model 21st century public service research university.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
University Counsel is responsible for providing proactive legal advice and consultation on a wide range of legal-policy matters, compliance, crisis management, and risk management matters. In addition, University Counsel provides a wide range of legal services, including federal and state statutory and compliance obligations; business contracts related to procurement, construction, and real estate transactions; employment; intellectual property and technology transfer; international employment and immigration law issues, law enforcement; open records; and general higher education law.
University Counsel is responsible for supervising litigation and the procurement and monitoring of outside legal services; developing policies and regulations where there are legal considerations; conducting legal research; and tracking legislation, regulatory developments and court decisions that may have an impact on the University.
QUALIFICATIONS:
REQUIRED:
- J.D. degree from an ABA accredited law school.
- Membership in good standing in the New Jersey bar, or eligibility to practice law in New Jersey as in-house counsel pursuant to N.J.R. 1:27-2.
- Minimum of ten years of experience in positions relevant to directing the legal affairs of a large, complex organization.
PREFERRED:
- Legal experience in public higher education and/or the public sector.
- Litigation, compliance, and contract experience.
- Excellent research, writing and communication skills
- Strong representational and presentation skills
- Ability to function effectively in a fast - paced environment with multiple and changing priorities and objectives
- Ability to lead and manage a team effectively.
- Exceptional intelligence, good judgment, discretion, and integrity.
DIVERSITY , EQUITY & INCLUSION STATEMENT
Montclair State University is committed to establishing and maintaining a diverse campus community that is representative of the State of New Jersey through inclusive excellence and equal opportunity. Montclair State University's commitment to access and equity is designed to prepare each graduate to thrive as a global citizen. As an affirmative action, equal opportunity institution we are working to support a campus-wide agenda to foster a community that both values and promotes the varied voices of our students, faculty, and staff. The University encourages candidates to apply who will contribute to the cultural tapestry of MSU.
PROCEDURE FOR CANDIDACY
Applicants should include a resume and cover letter describing how their background, skills and education match the needs of the University. When applying, please take a moment to carefully read and follow the steps in the application instructions.
Department
Office of the PresidentPosition Type
ExecutiveContact Information:
For questions or concerns, please contact Human Resources' Workday Recruiting Support at 973-655-5000 (Option 2) , or email talent @montclair.edu .
EEO/AA Statement
Montclair State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution with a strong commitment to diversity.