Associate General Counsel

The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation • New York, NY

382d • $275,000 - $325,000

About The Position

The Associate General Counsel at the Mellon Foundation is a strategic and experienced legal professional responsible for providing comprehensive legal support across various disciplines. This role involves advising the Foundation's staff and Board of Trustees on governance, compliance, contractual, and regulatory matters, ensuring sound legal practices within the philanthropic sector. The position requires a generalist approach, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to manage complex legal issues while fostering a culture of compliance and risk mitigation.

Requirements

• J.D. degree and at least 7+ years of legal experience, preferably with significant law firm experience.
• Experience in not-for-profit legal practice, including compliance, governance, commercial contracts, and tax law.
• Demonstrated business acumen and ability to achieve the Foundation's goals.
• Experience supporting board governance is a plus.
• Ability to adapt to change and think outside the box.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and interpersonal skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience across a range of legal areas and willingness to learn new areas.
• Experience advising on board governance matters.
• A thoughtful approach to risk management.

Responsibilities

• Negotiating, reviewing, drafting, and interpreting contracts.
• Assisting in the development of Foundation policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Advising clients on a broad range of legal issues including exempt organization, tax, intellectual property, contract, and grant matters.
• Supporting board governance work.
• Supporting a culture of legal and regulatory compliance.
• Executing practical and balanced risk mitigation plans with guidance from senior legal staff.
• Anticipating and managing legal issues considering legal risk and reputational impact.
• Building relationships and facilitating collaborations with Foundation staff at all levels.
• Independently exercising judgment on complex legal matters.

Benefits

• Generous total reward package including base salary and comprehensive benefits program.
• Hybrid work schedule with three days per week in-person at the Foundation's Manhattan offices.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree