Senior Director, Legal Counsel

Cytokinetics•South San Francisco, CA

4d•$315,000 - $367,500•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Director, Legal Counsel will serve as a senior legal advisor to Cytokinetics, providing strategic, practical, and business-oriented counsel across a range of corporate and commercial matters. This role will partner closely with business leaders and cross-functional stakeholders on complex transactions and strategic initiatives, while independently identifying legal risks, developing practical solutions, and balancing legal considerations with business objectives. This position will report to the SVP, Deputy General Counsel and Corporate Secretary.

Requirements

JD degree and active membership in good standing with at least one U.S. state bar. Admitted to California bar or admitted as Registered In-House Counsel in California is preferred
Minimum of 10+ years of experience as in-house counsel in a biotechnology, pharma or healthcare company or a combination of in-house corporate and/or nationally recognized law firm specializing in the area of interest
Detail-oriented with a high level of intellectual, professional and interpersonal agility and flexibility, combined with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
An ability to operate independently
Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
Intellectually curious with a willingness to take responsibility
Well-organized and hardworking, with the ability to manage numerous projects simultaneously under deadline pressure
Excellent analytical skills, with a strong ability to draft and review legal documents, analyze legal advice and apply legal advice to business needs
Ability to form strong working relationships with all levels of management, employees, and partners while maintaining firm adherence to proper legal standards
Team-oriented and collegial, with sound judgement and a willingness to take initiative

Responsibilities

Participate and potentially lead the negotiation of complex corporate arrangements and agreements connected with business development / licensing matters, and acquisitions of technology, either working individually or with outside counsel.
Exercise direct or supervisory responsibility for the drafting and negotiation of contracts of varying complexity typical to: (1) small- to medium-sized public companies and (2) companies in the biopharmaceutical industry; strong knowledge of the key provisions of such agreements that give rise to negotiation issues such as indemnities, limitations of liability, warranties and covenants, termination and matters connected with intellectual property protections, and regulatory concerns
Identify, review and evaluate legal technology systems, including AI solutions, aimed at improving the efficiency of legal operations and lead or assist with the implementation of such systems, including by developing workflows, templates, etc.
Independently provide leadership on cross-functional teams, identify legal issues, provide legal options and analysis of possible legal solutions, and give recommendations for addressing critical issues so that business and legal objectives are met.
May also provide support and advice to G&A departments.
Manage outside counsel effectively and efficiently, and consistent with applicable budgets. Work creatively with outside counsel to minimize fees and costs.