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: