General Counsel, Part-Time

Thomas Edison State University provides distinctive undergraduate and graduate education for self-directed adults through flexible, high-quality, collegiate learning and assessment opportunities. One of New Jersey’s senior public institutions of higher education, the University offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in more than 100 areas of study. At Thomas Edison State University we embrace a diverse and dynamic workforce that drives innovation, learner success and organizational growth. We welcome you to apply to be a part of our team.

Description:

The General Counsel advises the President, Board of Trustees and administrators regarding all legal matters at the University and New Jersey State Library. The General Counsel provides advice on employment law, contracting, public procurement, discrimination law, public records, and student matters. The General Counsel reports directly to the President of the University. This part-time position is an integral part of the leadership team at Thomas Edison State University.

Examples of Work:

- Advise the President, Board of Trustees, Vice Presidents, Deans and other University and Library staff on legal matters related to all aspects of University and Library business

- Provide representation or oversight on legal matters and manage litigation, legal investigations, settlements, and responses to legal proceedings

- Participate in discussions on strategy and policy matters from a legal perspective

- Provide sound legal oversight on a variety of complex issues related to the University and Library

- Attend all Board of Trustees meetings and advise the Board on all legal matters and procedures

- Serve as University legal liaison with the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General and assigned Deputy Attorneys General, and oversee the work of outside counsel when engaged by the University

- Provide advice and legal counsel on the development/review/revision of University policies and procedures

- Negotiate settlements and draft and review contracts

- Manage coordination with external law firms as needed

- Act as ethics officer for the University and Library

- Anticipate and identify legal issues and apprise the University about legal developments in case law and changes in statutes relating to higher education

- Manage essential files and records of the Office of General Counsel and maintain confidentiality and integrity of sensitive issues, files, programs, projects and correspondence related to same

- Engage in appropriate professional development and participate in professional organizations (e.g. the National Association of College and University Attorneys) in order to remain current in legal matters pertaining to higher education law

- Carry out special projects as assigned by the President and/or Board

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

- Broad knowledge of Federal and New Jersey state higher education laws and regulations

- Advanced legal research skills

- Knowledge of legal documentation procedures and requirements

- Ability to develop and implement legal strategies and solutions

- Demonstrated analytical ability and sound independent judgment

- Strong oral and writing skills

- Strong interpersonal and communication skills

- Knowledge of Federal and New Jersey court procedures

Requirements:

- J.D. from an ABA accredited law school

- A member in good standing of the New Jersey Bar

- A minimum of ten (10) years of legal experience dealing directly with legal matters relevant to this position preferred

- Substantial experience providing legal advice and representation to a higher education institution, as in-house counsel or in a similar legal position

*Inquires regarding this position can be directed to Michael Mancini, Chief of Staff, Chief Operations Officer, and Secretary to the board at [email protected]

Thomas Edison State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer