Employment Counsel

Biogen • Cambridge, MA

1d

About The Position

As an Employment Counsel on the Legal & Compliance team, you will provide crucial legal advice and support to Biogen's Global Human Resources department, addressing the needs of over 8,000 global employees. Your expertise will guide HR in navigating complex issues such as performance management, recruitment, harassment/discrimination, and compliance with employment laws and regulations. You will manage employment disputes, coordinate with outside counsel, and ensure HR practices align with legal standards. This role is integral to maintaining a compliant and productive workforce, directly impacting Biogen's operational success and strategic objectives within the organization. Reports to Chief Employment Counsel.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and J.D.
• At least 10 years of experience in employment law, including top-tier law firm practice and preferably in-house experience.
• Licensed to practice law in Massachusetts or eligible for admission.
• Extensive knowledge of US employment laws and HR compliance.
• Proven experience in managing investigations, employment disputes and selecting outside counsel.
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with global HR laws and regulations, cross-border personnel movement and international HR compliance.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality legal advice to the Global HR team on employment law compliance.
• Manage employment disputes, including handling demand letters and agency complaints.
• Oversee global HR governance program, policy rollouts, audits, and vendor contracting.
• Offer legal counsel on U.S. HR matters such as compensation, benefits, and restructuring.
• Direct and advise on HR investigations, ensuring thorough and compliant processes.
• Monitor and advise on employment law developments, anticipating potential impacts.
• Collaborate with HR, Legal & Compliance, and Finance on non-employee and tax-related issues.
• Select and manage outside counsel for employment dispute resolutions and other advice.
• Conduct HR audits, directing necessary remediations for compliance.
• Develop training materials and update policies in response to legal developments.
• Facilitate cross-border movement of personnel with legal compliance.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurances
• Fitness & Wellness programs including a fitness reimbursement
• Short- and Long-Term Disability insurance
• A minimum of 15 days of paid vacation and an additional end-of-year shutdown time off (Dec 26-Dec 31)
• Up to 12 company paid holidays + 3 paid days off for Personal Significance
• 80 hours of sick time per calendar year
• Paid Maternity and Parental Leave benefit
• 401(k) program participation with company matched contributions
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Tuition reimbursement of up to $10,000 per calendar year
• Employee Resource Groups participation

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager