Senior Counsel, Litigation

• 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 business units providing practical advice and alternative solutions to business issues
• 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
• Provides expertise, advice, and counsel on complex legal matters in civil litigation
• Directly negotiates matters on behalf of The Regents
• Manages and oversees outside counsel, and/or directly represents the University in litigation and internal administrative proceedings
• Develops objectives and ensures service according to established priorities
• Independently or in collaboration with more senior attorneys handles a wide range of legal matters and projects
• Represents institutional concerns persuasively to internal and external parties
• Delegates work effectively to maximize efficiencies
• Makes recommendations concerning areas of work to perform in-house versus payment for an outside firm
• Ensures accurate record keeping in compliance with UC Legal data quality protocols
• Compliance with delegations of authority for committing University funds
• Provides functional advice, training and/or guidance and effectively mentors less experienced attorneys or paralegals
• Provides clear expectations and mentors legal support staff to meet expected levels of productivity and accuracy

• Minimum of 5 years of Litigation experience in a law firm or in-house counsel for an academic institution, corporation, or other entity
• Proven abilities in collaboration, facilitation, and strategic creative thinking
• Thorough understanding of complex legal issues
• Strong interpersonal communication skills, including proven ability to actively listen, negotiate, persuade and educate
• Able to build credibility with a broad group of colleagues and clients, to include senior leaders
• Strong written communications skills and ability to create and deliver effective materials and/or presentations appropriate to a particular audience
• In-depth research skills to draft accurate, complete and persuasive legal documents, such as pleadings, legal responses, affidavits, position statements and briefs
• Proven decision-making ability, even when unpopular, earning credibility and support from colleagues
• Strong coaching and leadership skills to provide clear expectations and guidance to less experienced attorneys and legal support staff
• Proven ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion and tact when handling sensitive or potentially sensitive issues
• Demonstrated commitment to the highest ethical standards
• Advanced skills in project management and facilitating policy review and changes
• Advanced degree in related area required
• Must be a member in good standing of the California Bar

Ability to foresee implications in a University setting, even when ambiguous or hidden

Comprehensive benefits package offered by the University