Associate Counsel

March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. We’re advocating for policies to protect them. We’re working to radically improve the health care they receive. We’re pioneering research to find solutions. We’re empowering families with programs, knowledge and tools to have healthier pregnancies. By uniting communities, we’re building a brighter future for us all.

We are dedicated to hiring a diverse workforce that fosters opportunities for personal and professional development. We provide a collaborative and supportive environment built upon our fundamental core principles where each employee is valued. Join us in the fight for healthy moms and strong babies.

Scope:
 

The Associate Counsel will play a key role in providing legal advice and support to March of Dimes on a wide range of legal matters.  This remote position will work closely with the General Counsel and other senior leaders to ensure that March of Dimes is operating within the law and achieves its mission while minimizing risks.  The Associate Counsel will handle legal issues related to nonprofit operations, governance, compliance, contracts, employment law, and other areas as needed. 
 

Responsibilities:

• Manage Legal Department operational functions and manage support staff as appropriate. In the absence of the General Counsel, provide leadership and ensure the responsiveness of Legal Department to Organization needs.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations applicable to nonprofit organizations.
• Identify potential legal risks and develop strategies to mitigate them, advising leadership on legal implications of Organizational activities.
• Draft, negotiate, and review contracts, memorandum of understanding, grant agreements, and other legal documents; develop improved and innovative agreements and legal documents, increasing Organization-wide efficiencies and mitigating risks.
• Counsel on charitable fundraising issues and applicable laws and regulations, including drafting and reviewing corporate sponsorships, commercial co-venture, and professional fundraiser and fundraising counsel agreements.
• Provide legal support on issues related to corporate governance, including board activities, bylaws, and policies.
• Manage matters in dispute through to resolution; respond to and satisfy discovery requests; supervise outside counsel and maintain communications with state regulatory authorities as needed.
• Protect the Organization’s intellectual property rights, including trademarks and copyrights.
• Have a general understanding of day-to-day administration of Trust and Estate and bankruptcy matters. Optimize operational activities and procedures, and direct file management and archiving processes for the administration of Trusts and Estates.
• Review and advise on employment-related matters, including employee relations, labor laws, policies and procedures.
• Perform other related duties as required to support the mission of March of Dimes.

Qualifications:

•  Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensure: must be an active member in good standing in at least 1 U.S. state bar, with the ability to obtain a corporate counsel certificate from the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience practicing law, with a strong preference for experience in nonprofit law, corporate governance, or a related field, including understanding of IRS regulations, 501(c)(3) compliance, and charitable fundraising laws.
• Preferred qualifications: experience working with diverse communities and a commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Commitment to March of Dimes’ mission and values.