Deputy General Counsel - Litigation

Smithfield Foods•Smithfield, VA

2d•$225,000 - $300,000

About The Position

The position summary states the general nature and purpose of the job. Overall accountabilities are defined in this section. As Deputy General Counsel-Litigation at Smithfield Foods, you will provide strategic legal counsel to senior leadership and oversee complex legal matters that impact the Company’s operations and growth. This role supports the Chief Legal Officer in managing the Legal Department and ensures legal strategies align with Smithfield’s business objectives, values, and risk profile. You’ll advise on corporate governance, litigation, regulatory compliance, contracts, and other high-impact matters, while also mentoring attorneys and legal staff. Acting as a trusted partner to the business, you help balance opportunity with risk, enabling Smithfield to operate with integrity, efficiency, and accountability.

Requirements

JD degree from an accredited law school and 15+ years of broad legal experience in a corporate legal department and/or top law firm, with proven leadership responsibilities.
Must be admitted to practice law in at least one U.S. state.
Demonstrated depth in litigation, regulatory compliance, and investigations within a complex business environment.
Strong leader who can guide attorneys and staff, foster professional development, and create a high-performing legal team.
Ability to anticipate risks, identify opportunities, and align legal strategy with long-term business goals.
Exceptional communication skills with the ability to convey complex legal concepts to executives, board members, and business leaders.
Critical thinker with sound judgment and the ability to deliver creative, well-reasoned solutions under pressure.
Proven success working cross-functionally with diverse business units to provide practical, business-focused legal advice.
High ethical standards, personal accountability, and a commitment to advancing Smithfield’s values and culture of integrity.

Responsibilities

Advise senior leadership on regulatory, litigation, and business matters, ensuring alignment with Smithfield’s objectives and risk profile.
Support the Chief Legal Officer in leading the Legal Department, including mentoring attorneys and staff, overseeing workflows, and ensuring operational excellence.
Oversee significant litigation and dispute resolution matters, managing strategy, outside counsel, and costs.
Monitor and advise on regulatory developments, compliance risks, and emerging legal issues that affect the Company’s operations.
Collaborate with business units across supply chain, operations, HR, finance, and IT to deliver practical legal solutions that enable growth while protecting the Company.
Contribute to policy development and risk management strategies that uphold Smithfield’s ethical standards and business practices.