General Counsel

The Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC) is a quasi-governmental investment agency that supports life sciences innovation, education, research & development, and commercialization in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Our mission is to ensure that the life sciences in Massachusetts remain the most dynamic, verdant ecosystem of its kind in the world. These investments create jobs and support advances that improve health and well-being. Through our investments, programs, collaboration and partnerships, the MLSC is committed to creating jobs and economic impact, and supporting scientific advances that will improve the health and well-being of patients across the world.

Purpose of the Job

The General Counsel is a member of the Center’s Executive Management Team (EMT) and is responsible for the management and administration of all legal matters relevant to the Center while also providing legal counsel and insight to the President & CEO. Included items: contract drafting and management, compliance, general business law, ethics, policies, procedures, rules, regulations, laws pertaining to contracts and grants, tax matters, liability and insurance matters, and other relevant laws and regulations.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed, as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Nothing in this job description restricts the President & CEO’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time for any reason, including reasonable accommodation.

Functions and Responsibilties

Oversees organizational and business transactions that include the documentation process for all contracts including negotiation, drafting and executing.

Manages the procurement/purchasing and contract administration processes.

Responds to and/or facilitates the resolution of legal questions and issues that arise among Center staff and/or with respect to Center stakeholders, including administrative law questions regarding state ethics requirements, public records and public meeting law.

Reviews programmatic, procurement and operational documents to ensure compliance with all legal requirements. Works closely with the Vice President of Finance and the Vice President of Industry Relations to maximize the efficiency and success of the Center’s awards and fiscal responsibilities.

Represents the Center, where appropriate, in legal transactions (including all grants and loans with respect to investments, contracts and other transactions), contract negotiations, litigation and all other matters necessitating representation – either directly or through the retention of outside counsel.

Identifies legal requirements and government reporting regulations affecting human resources functions and ensures policies, procedures, and reporting are in compliance.

Assists and provides strategic counsel to the Center regarding legislative and policy issues, including interpretation of Massachusetts General Laws, Part I, Title II, Chapter 23I as it pertains to the MLSC and any other applicable laws.

Works collaboratively with the Operations Manager/EA with respect to preparing for the Center’s Board/Committee meetings including agendas, resolution drafting, minute transcription and vote recording.

Collaborates with Executive Management Team regarding statewide ethics laws and decision-making, and policy implementation. Provides guidance and staff education/awareness at the Center in regards to ethics law and practice, including the federal Freedom of Information Act and Massachusetts Public Records Law.

Collaborates with the legal office of the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development to ensure the Center’s legal functions are aligned with the goals of the executive office.

Requirements

Education/Experience

Law degree (J. D.) plus Massachusetts Bar Certification with a minimum of 5-7 years related experience and training. Ability to negotiate effectively and be highly organized. Knowledge of state-of-the-art computer word processing and analytical tools such as Excel.

An experienced leader and executive with appropriate industry experience. An energetic, forward-thinking and creative individual with high ethical standards, good judgment and strong operational focus. A well-organized and self-directed individual who is "politically savvy" and a team player. An excellent negotiator who is experienced in contracts and change management.

Knowledge and Skills

JD degree from accredited law school

License to practice law in the State of Massachusetts and in good standing with the Massachusetts State Bar Association

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, handle multiple projects/transactions from all departments throughout the Center and meet deadlines in a timely manner is required

Attention to detail with a history of taking initiative and proven ability to complete projects

Excellent communication, analytical and writing skills

Experience working in state government authorities and agencies

5-7 years of professional experience as an attorney

Knowledge of federal and Massachusetts state and local laws/regulations relating to programs, governmental compliance and other regulatory standards

Benefits

Currently working remotely due to COVID-19.