Associate General Counsel

DePaul University•Chicago, IL

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Associate General Counsel provides an array of legal services to the University, reporting to the Vice President and General Counsel. This role offers advanced legal counsel and strategic guidance to senior University leadership on a broad range of complex matters, including real estate, facilities operations, tax and financing, commercial transactions, investments, advancement activities, and corporate governance. The position requires a high degree of independent judgment, management of institutional risk, and coordination with outside counsel as appropriate.

Requirements

JD from an ABA accredited law school, required.
Minimum of 4 to 6 years’ experience in the practice of law required.
Must be licensed to practice law in the state of Illinois.
Demonstrated capability for legal research, analysis and reasoning.
Superior oral and written communication skills.
Ability to identify and resolve complicated and sensitive problems creatively and with professional discretion.
Ability to interact and function effectively in an academic community.
Proficiency with basic office software programs including Microsoft Office.

Nice To Haves

Some combination of real estate, commercial, non-profit, or education law experience, preferred.
Prior real estate, commercial/corporate transactional, and large firm experience highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Serves as primary legal advisor on complex real estate and facilities matters, including acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, land use, zoning, and construction. Drafts, reviews, and negotiates sophisticated agreements and transactional documents. Identifies and mitigates legal and operational risks. Oversees and directs outside counsel on specialized matters.
Provides legal counsel on a wide range of general contracts, commercial transactions, and institutional initiatives. Drafts, reviews, and negotiates agreements, including vendor contracts, service agreements, and other commercial instruments. Supports cross-functional and enterprise initiatives by identifying legal risks, structuring solutions, and ensuring alignment with University policies and applicable laws.
Provides legal analysis and guidance on tax compliance, debt financing, and investment activities. Supports structuring and execution of financing transactions and investment arrangements. Drafts and reviews legal documents and coordinates with external counsel and financial professionals to ensure compliance with applicable laws and institutional objectives.
Advises on legal aspects of charitable giving, including planned giving vehicles, endowments, and major gift agreements. Ensures compliance with applicable tax, regulatory, and donor intent requirements. Reviews and drafts complex gift instruments and related documentation.
Provides legal support on governance and policy interpretation. Drafts and reviews contracts, memoranda, and institutional forms. Contributes to development and implementation of policies that support compliance and operational effectiveness.
Handles special projects and performs other duties as assigned consistent with the level and scope of the position. Supervises the activities of outside counsel, external consultants, and activities of a paralegal working in the department on issues related to the portfolio.