Position Summary

The successful candidate will have the ability to analyze complex issues and react appropriately; exercise excellent judgment; handle multiple matters at the same time; offer advice and counsel to University officials, faculty and researchers; meet deadlines; use outside counsel in a cost effective manner; and work independently and with other lawyers in the office on a variety of matters.  The attorney will provide services for all University campuses, working independently and with other lawyers in the office.  Assistant/Associate title commensurate with level of experience

Responsibilities

• Provide advice and counsel to University leadership and other internal clients on a wide variety of issues;
• Review and draft contracts and agreements;
• Respond to inquiries on regulatory matters;
• Develop, draft and interpret University policies;
• Conduct and/or oversee and support internal investigations;
• Advise on compliance issues;
• Oversee outside counsel on complex litigation, investigations and audits;
• Support all University related legal efforts as needed.

Minimum Qualifications & Skills

• Education
  • A Juris Doctor degree from a nationally recognized law school with excellent academic credentials in law school and in undergraduate studies.

• Required:

  • Seven plus years of practice experience at law firm, government agency and/or in-house experience in advising and counseling clients;
  • Ability to analyze complex situations and react appropriately;
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment after researching and interpreting relevant facts;
  • Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines;
  • Ability to supervise outside counsel in a cost-effective manner;
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision and to handle multiple high priority tasks simultaneously.
  • Excellent drafting skills;
  • Confidence and judgment necessary to act pragmatically;
  • High level of intellectual curiosity;
  • Ability and desire to function collaboratively;
  • Openness to growth and learning in a team environment, consistent with the goals and principles that guide the General Counsel’s Office;
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate easily with colleagues and internal clients;
  • Must be admitted to the New York State Bar or admitted within one year of hire;
  • Higher Education and/or other in-house experience a plus.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.