Counsel 4 - Education Affairs

Profile

Counsel 4 - Education Affairs
The candidate will be reporting to the Managing Counsel - Education Affairs & Governance, this position independently handles a range of legal matters and projects in the Education Affairs practice area, to include the most complex and that of substantial importance and impact. The primary responsibility is to advise campus academic senate committees (e.g. Privilege & Tenure Committees) with jurisdiction over faculty grievance cases (faculty member claims injury through violation of his or her rights); and faculty disciplinary cases (faculty member accused of violating the faculty code of conduct). This position will advise on pre-hearing and hearing procedures (particularly on questions of due process), attend pre-hearing conferences and hearings; review and edit final Committee findings and recommendations to campus Chancellor; provide orientations for committee members; participate in meetings of System-wide P&T Committee; and coordinate the work of other attorneys in the Education Affairs group who may also perform these functions from time to time as necessary. This position will follow a strict legal firewall between this function and that portion of the General Counsel's Office that prosecutes matters before the hearing committees. This position interprets complex facts and the law in areas of high ambiguity, provides functional advice, training and/or guidance to clients and to less-experienced attorneys. Reviews and revises a variety of instruments involving the University's interest such as advice memoranda, policies and contracts. Responsibilities also include advising on laws, regulations and policies applicable to a range of education affairs issues including, but not limited to, free speech, academic freedom, admissions, financial aid, student conduct, FERPA, Title IX, Clery Act, etc. Delivers ethical, timely, efficient and high quality legal services to the University of California's ten campuses, five medical centers, and the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, as well as to the Board of Regents, the President, the Chancellors and other officers of the University. By practicing OGC's established Values, this position contributes to a workplace that is collaborative, supportive, respectful of differences, and committed to fairness, diversity and inclusion in all interactions, both within and outside the team. It also supports OGC's commitment to increasing and maintaining diversity in the legal profession. Provides advice and counsel to academic senate committees with jurisdiction over faculty grievance and faculty disciplinary matters, including participating in pre-hearing and hearing procedures, providing orientations to committees, and coordinating the work of other attorneys who may perform this function from time to time as needed. Provides substantial expertise within the University in the Education Affairs area and independently handles a full range of legal matters and projects, to include the highest complexity and that of significant importance and impact to the University. Establishes effective relationships with key internal and external constituencies. Recognizes strategic needs of organization and proactively builds relationships with appropriate stakeholders to ensure successful outcomes. Serves as a trusted strategic partner with University units, providing practical advice and alternative solutions. Advises and renders opinions to senior leaders with respect to the legal implications of establishing or changing policy. Works with colleagues at the Office of the President or campus/medical center locations to develop and modify practices and procedures to conform with changing legal requirements. Functions as a lead and technical resource within the area of practice. Directly negotiates matters on behalf of The Regents. May act as a liaison with outside counsel. Typically manages outside counsel budget for area of specialty. Delegates work effectively to maximize efficiencies. Provides clear expectations and mentors others to meet expected levels of productivity and accuracy. Provides functional advice, training and/or guidance and effectively mentors less-experienced attorneys. Practices OGC's established Values: collaborative, supportive, respectful of differences, and committed to fairness, diversity and inclusion in all interactions, both within and outside the team. Should have J.D. from an accredited law school. Member in good standing of the California Bar (the successful applicant, if not a member of the California Bar, will be required to become one as soon as possible after hire). Should have 8+ years relevant experience in a law firm, or in-house counsel for an academic institution, corporation or other entity, although exceptional experience with fewer years of practice will be considered. Commitment to the highest ethical standards. Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion and tact when handling sensitive matters. Proven abilities in collaboration, facilitation, and strategic and creative thinking. In-depth understanding of highly complex legal issues and ability to foresee implications in specialty area, even when ambiguous or hidden. Advanced interpersonal communication skills, including proven ability to actively listen, negotiate, persuade and educate.Advanced written communication skills and ability to create and deliver effective materials and/or presentations appropriate to a particular audience. Skills to gain trust and build credibility with a broad group of colleagues and clients, to include senior leaders, and with a particular emphasis on building relationships with UC faculty members who sit on academic senate committees. Advanced research skills; ability to readily identify critical legislative changes in area of specialty. Advanced decision making ability, even when unpopular, earning credibility and support from colleagues. Advanced skills in project management, and facilitating policy review and changes. Ability to mentor and coach all levels of staff; strong coaching and leadership skills to provide clear expectations, guidance and performance feedback to less experienced attorneys and legal support staff. Previous experience in a university setting. Experience advising clients in the context of administrative hearings.

Company info

Sign Up Now - WashingtondcCrossing.com