Associate General Counsel

Summary:  American University (AU), Washington, DC, is seeking an Associate General Counsel as part of the Office of General Counsel (“OGC”), a fast paced, high volume workplace that provides legal services to the university.

AU is a private institution with a diverse community of students, faculty, and staff who represent every state and more than 150 countries. Our internationally recognized faculty are today's thought leaders in the areas of public policy, law, the arts, communications, international development, and more. 

AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite.

The Associate General Counsel plays a pivotal role in providing representation, advice, and counsel in the areas of employment, , athletics, student and faculty issues, and other matters for academic and operational units as assigned by the Vice President and General Counsel (“VPGC”).

This position reports directly to the VPGC and independently manages a diverse portfolio of client matters. The Associate General Counsel does s not directly supervise any OGC administrative staff but will assign and oversee the completion of tasks or assignments given to the OGC legal and administrative staff.

Application Link: https://american.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/AU/details/Associate-General-Counsel_R847

Essential Functions:

1. Independently manages multiple unrelated matters concurrently.
2. Provides advice, and counsel to university leaders on a range of legal issues, using sound legal judgement, diligence and integrity.
3. Works collaboratively and collegially with OGC colleagues.
4. Conducts legal research.
5. Engages in policy development.
6. Drafts and reviews legal documents.
7. Responds to complaints, demands, and subpoenas directed to the university.
8. Represents the university in negotiations and before boards, commissions, and courts as necessary.
9. Assists the VPGC with the coordination and supervision of outside counsel.
10. Works independently on routine legal matters while recognizing issues of institutional importance, taking proactive steps to resolve issues while keeping the VPGC appropriately informed.
11. Effectively communicates to clients by clearly explaining practical solutions for addressing problems, appropriately balancing legal considerations with institutional programmatic and policy objectives.

Education, Training, and/or Experience Required:

• Juris Doctorate and a minimum of five years as a practicing attorney
• Must be admitted to and in good standing in DC or other state bar. DC Bar admission required within 12 months of appointment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience advising college or university clients