General Counsel

General Counsel

LOCATION: Chicago, IL

COMPANY OVERVIEW: We are a General Contractor and Construction Management firm, established on the core principles of family, honesty, discipline, and quality. Our team consists of individuals with extensive general contracting, construction management, and design-build experience. We build projects with passion and are driven by the anticipation of the impact they will have in our communities- for years to come.

ROLE OVERVIEW: The General Counsel will serve as a crucial part of the overall organization, providing strategic legal advice and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. This role will oversee all legal matters of the company, support corporate governance, manage litigation, and guide the company on risk management. The General Counsel will also support the growth and evolution of Bowa Construction by implementing and improving legal processes and procedures.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Legal Strategy and Advisory:

• Develop and implement the company's legal strategy.
• Provide expert and strategic legal advice to management on various legal matters.
• Anticipate and identify legal issues and proactively develop strategies to mitigate risks.
• Provide legal counsel to the executive team and the Board of Directors, including drafting and revising corporate policies, bylaws, minutes, agendas, and resolutions.
• Advise the HR team on federal, multi-state, and international employment law.
• Advise management and staff on legal issues related to programmatic initiative

Compliance and Governance:

• Ensure the company’s compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
• Oversee corporate governance and advise the board of directors on legal and compliance issues.
• Develop and implement internal policies and procedures to ensure compliance.

Contract Management:

• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, agreements, and other legal documents.
• Manage and mitigate risks associated with contracts and ensure favorable terms for the company.
• Provide guidance on contract disputes and resolution.
• Ensure that contracts are fully executed and in compliance with laws and regulations.
• Interpret contract requirements, manage contract performance, and ensure compliance with contractual terms.

Litigation and Dispute Resolution:

• Manage and oversee all litigation matters involving the company.
• Work with external legal counsel as necessary and represent the company in legal proceedings.
• Develop strategies for dispute resolution and negotiate settlements when appropriate.

Risk Management:

• Identify potential legal risks and develop strategies to manage and mitigate them.
• Conduct regular audits and assessments to ensure compliance with legal standards.
• Advise on insurance coverage and manage claims.

Employee Relations:

• Provide legal guidance on employment law and labor relations.
• Handle legal issues related to employee contracts, disputes, and disciplinary actions.
• Ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations.

Corporate Transactions:

• Support and advise on mergers, acquisitions, and other corporate transactions.
• Conduct due diligence and manage legal aspects of transactions.
• Ensure smooth integration of legal functions post-transaction.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, QUALIFICATIONS, & EXPERIENCE:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law and in good standing with the state bar.
• Minimum of 10 years of legal experience, preferably in the construction industry.
• Proven experience as a General Counsel or in a senior legal leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of construction law, contract law, and regulatory compliance.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and work under pressure.
• High ethical standards and integrity.

BENEFITS:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance - 80% Employer contribution & Employee HSA contribution*
• Performance Based Bonuses - % of base salary
• Parental Leave
• Basic Life, AD&D, Short Term Disability Insurance - 100% covered by Employer
• Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid Vacation, Sick Time, & Holidays.
• Employee Assistance Program - (advocates to help manage and control stress levels and everyday life for you and/or your family)