Vice President (VP) of Legal

JOB SUMMARY:

The VP, Legal assists the Chief Legal Officer in overseeing the legal affairs of the organization. This role involves managing a broad range of legal issues, including franchising, corporate governance, contracts, compliance, litigation, and regulatory matters. The VP, Legal will act as a trusted advisor to senior management, support legal operations, and help ensure the company operates in accordance with all relevant laws and regulations.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Legal Advisory & Strategy:

• Assist the CLO in providing legal advice to senior leadership and business units on corporate strategy, regulatory matters, and business operations.
• Evaluate and mitigate legal risks across various business areas, including contracts, labor, regulatory compliance, and intellectual property.
• Monitor and analyze legal developments that may impact the business.

Contract Management:

• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide variety of contracts, including franchise agreements, FDDs, supplier agreements, partnerships, licensing deals, and other business-related legal documents.
• Ensure that all contracts comply with applicable laws and protect the organization’s interests.

Litigation & Dispute Resolution:

• Support and manage the company's involvement in litigation, disputes, and regulatory inquiries.
• Work with outside counsel when necessary and oversee external legal services to ensure efficient and cost-effective representation.
• Provide strategic guidance on litigation risks and dispute resolution strategies.

Compliance & Risk Management:

• Ensure that the organization complies with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements, including franchise law, employment law, data privacy regulations, and industry-specific standards.
• Help develop and implement internal compliance programs and policies to address risk.
• Provide legal training and updates to internal teams on regulatory changes and compliance requirements.

Corporate Governance:

• Assist in advising the board of directors and executive leadership on corporate governance practices.
• Draft and maintain key corporate documents, including board resolutions, shareholder agreements, and meeting minutes.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations governing corporate governance.

Team Leadership & Collaboration:

• Support the legal department in its daily operations, including mentoring junior legal staff and collaborating with other departments (e.g., HR, finance, operations).
• Act as a backup to the CLO, assuming their responsibilities when required.
• Foster a collaborative working relationship with internal stakeholders and external legal professionals.

Regulatory Affairs & Licensing:

• Assist with obtaining and maintaining necessary licenses, permits, and certifications for the company’s operations.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with industry-specific regulations, including franchise, health, safety, environmental, or other applicable standards.

Policy Development:

• Contribute to the development and enforcement of corporate policies that ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards.
• Advise on the development of HR, operational, and corporate policies in line with best practices and current regulations.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law and in good standing with the relevant bar association.
• 7-12 years of legal experience, with a focus on franchising, corporate law, compliance, or litigation.
• Proven track record of handling complex legal issues and advising senior management.
• Strong contract drafting and negotiation skills.
• Experience in managing litigation and external counsel.
• Knowledge of corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and risk management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain complex legal matters clearly.
• Strong organizational and leadership skills, with the ability to work under pressure and prioritize effectively.

PREFERRED SKILLS:

• Previous experience in franchising working in-house at a franchisor.
• Familiarity with international legal issues, particularly in jurisdictions where the company operates.
• Experience with mergers and acquisitions or intellectual property law.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• This position requires the ability to work remotely at a computer with or without reasonable accommodation.

Compensation: $210-$230k/yr + annual bonus based on qualifications, experience, and performance.  Competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401k with company match.

CircusTrix and its brands are proud to be equal opportunity employers. 

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members.