Executive 3-General Counsel | Office of University Human Resources

Profile Summary

The position in this job profile is the chief legal officer for the university and is responsible for managing all of the university's legal affairs. The position advises the university's senior leadership on the legal implications of strategy, business and policy decisions. The position oversees and is responsible for the Office of General Counsel attorneys' provision of legal advice across the university. The position retains and supervises outside counsel. The position serves as a member of the President's Cabinet.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The Executive 3-General Counsel profile is the General Legal Counsel for the University.

Primary Position Responsibilities

1. Responsible for managing all of the university’s legal affairs. 2. Provides legal advice and assistance to the Board of Trustees, President, Provost, central administration, deans, directors, and faculty. 3. Oversees and provides leadership to the Office of General Counsel, including developing long and short term objectives and priorities, ensuring effective workflow. 4. Reviews University activities to determine compliance with applicable law. 5. Serves as a member of the President's Cabinet to deliberate and recommend to the President on policy issues before the University. 6. Provides leadership, supervision, and direction for assigned staff. Hire and train employees; plan, assign and review work, establish goals for each position and assess performance through completion of written evaluations; act on disciplinary issues, up to and including dismissal; address grievances, developing a framework for corrective actions as necessary.

Problem Solving and Decision Making

Problems are highly varied, complex and often non-recurring; require novel and creative approaches to resolution. New concepts and approaches may have to be developed. Decisions have significant, broad implications for the management and operations of the University; makes decisions on the overall strategy and direction of the Office of General Counsel and advises on decisions across the entire university. Decisions impact: • Entire University • Functions across the University • Department • Direct team • Donors and Alumni • Student/Parents • Other External Agencies and Institutions

Accountability

Results are defined by university strategy, mission and vision; incumbent sets own goals and determines how to accomplish results with few or no guidelines to follow, although precedents may exist; supervisor/manager provides broad guidance and overall direction. Reports to the President of the University; has independent responsibilities as General Counsel, to the Board of Trustees. Supervises work of professional faculty, including planning and reviewing work.

Relationship With Others

Collaborates and interacts within the Dept/Unit, University Wide, and Externally to: • Exchange routine, factual information and/or answer routine questions. • Exchange detailed information or resolve varied problems. • Access and/or work with sensitive and/or confidential information. • Identify needs/concerns of others, determine potential solutions, resolve or redirect appropriately. • Persuade, gain cooperation and acceptance of ideas or collaborate on significant projects. • Resolve conflict, negotiate or collaborate on major projects. • Handle sensitive issues and facilitate collaboration at the highest level. • Develop and maintain relationships with key contacts to enhance workflow and work quality.

Typical Requirements

Juris Doctorate degree in Law. Oregon Bar License. At least 10 years of experience as a practicing attorney including practicing in higher education setting or public law experience.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by positions within this job profile. They are not designed to contain or be interpreted as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, skills, and qualifications required of all employees within positions covered by this job profile.