Senior Vice President (SVP) and General Counsel

Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association • Frederick, MD

158d • $300,000 - $400,000 • Remote

About The Position

Reporting directly to the President and CEO, the General Counsel will provide legal advice and guidance to the association on a broad range of matters. The General Counsel will partner closely with other departments throughout the association to help oversee and manage legal needs and exposures while seeking to achieve the association's goals. The General Counsel is also responsible for overseeing the organization's Pilot Protection Services program, which is a key revenue-generating segment of operations.

Requirements

• A JD from an accredited law school with current qualification and admittance to practice in appropriate jurisdictions and Federal courts.
• A minimum of twelve years of aviation or government legal experience is required.
• Must possess the ability to juggle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work closely with others in a range of roles both internally and externally.
• Superb verbal and written communication and negotiation skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to respond quickly to emergencies and complex issues.

Nice To Haves

• Private Pilot License with advanced ratings.
• Non-profit legal experience.

Responsibilities

• Serve as Secretary to the Board of Trustees for each entity.
• Oversee corporate governance including preparing minutes, drafting resolutions, updating bylaws and articles of incorporation, and maintaining corporate records.
• Provide the CEO and business units with legal and policy focused advice on a broad range of issues affecting the association including contracts, intellectual property, marketing and privacy laws.
• Oversee the Pilot Protection Services Plan including in-house attorneys, medical staff, and the nationwide network of panel attorneys.
• Conduct complex legal research on issues impacting the Foundation, the association and its affiliates, and AOPA members.
• Review all major Foundation, association, and corporate affiliate contracts.
• Oversee intellectual property portfolio of trademarks, copyrights, and patents.
• Prepare and review legal filings in connection with litigation, petitions for exemption, Part 13 and 16 complaints.
• Support advocacy efforts through review of legislative and regulatory proposals.
• Coordinate with outside counsel regarding litigation and specialty topics and issues.
• Establish and maintain relationships with regulators and agencies including NTSB, FAA, DOT, CBP, DHS.
• Coach, mentor, and develop staff members and provide performance feedback.

Benefits

• Flight Training (earn your Private Pilot License for free) & Annual Flight Proficiency Program.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance available for employees and their dependents.
• Flexible Spending Plans.
• Health Savings Plan with employer contribution.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with a company match.
• Company paid Short and Long-term Disability Insurance.
• Company paid Life Insurance and AD&D insurance.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): 17 days accrued during first year.
• Paid Holidays: 12 holidays.
• Personal days: 3 (prorated based on hire date).
• Volunteer day: 1 (prorated based on hire date).
• Work From Home Fridays.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• AOPA Membership.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Wellness Program (earn medical insurance premium discounts).
• Gym Reimbursement Program.
• Tuition Reimbursement Program.
• Discount on AOPA swag.
• Business casual dress code.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees