Job Summary:

Reporting to the President, this position serves as the chief legal officer to the University and provides legal advice and counsel to the Board of Trustees, President, and senior leaders on a wide range of legal, regulatory, compliance, labor relations, employment, insurance, and risk management matters affecting the University. This position will establish a proactive and collaborative approach to the Office of General Counsel and will manage the legal resources in a manner that supports the overall priorities of the University. In addition, this position serves as Secretary to the Board of Trustees.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assume primary responsibility for providing legal advice and counsel to the President.
• Serve as Secretary to the Board of Trustees, ensuring Board resolutions and other critical issues are accounted and performed in a manner as outlined in the State of Ohio rules and regulations as well as the by-laws of the Board of Trustees.
• Research pending proposed revisions to Ohio state law and other public policy issues that affect the University and provide guidance for its possible implication, policy development and implementation.
• Provide oversight and draft University policies and procedures.
• Combine legal considerations with program and policy objectives in the development of practical solutions for the University
• Manage the contract negotiations process. Act as contract administrator for university collective bargaining agreements; represent the University in mediation and arbitration hearings.
• Responsible for conducting research to prepare correspondence proposals, reports, and other documented material as requested by the President.
• Manage and coordinate special projects on behalf of the President which are of strategic concern and legal importance to the University.
• Provide overall leadership, strategic direction and management for the Office of General Counsel to ensure efficient and effective service delivery.
• Supervises, mentors, and evaluates staff, fostering a culture of professional development and excellence in service.
• Responsible for working closely with various University Vice Presidents, Faculty, Officials, and Staff on legal matters.
• Participate in internal and external committees.
• Performs other tasks as assigned by the President.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of University policy, practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of Ohio Laws and Statutes.
• Must be self-motivated and able to think both independently and strategically.
• Must be well organized and able to accomplish multiple and complex tasks in a timely and expeditious manner.
• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to write legal memoranda, briefs, contracts and other work products
• Ability to research, understand and communicate complex topics
• Ability to identify and resolve legal issues
• Demonstrated critical thinking, reasoned judgment and analytical skills

Minimum Qualifications:

• Juris Doctorate degree, licensed to practice in the State of Ohio
• Ten (10) years of experience as an attorney at a higher education institution or government entity; with at least five years of experience in an administrative capacity
• Possess a broad understanding and knowledge of issues affecting higher education.
• Possess high ethical standards and integrity

Applications must be submitted through the Central State University Careers website:  https://careers.centralstate.edu

About Central State University

Central State University (Central State), a public historically black land-grant university in Wilberforce, Ohio with a tradition of excellence in teaching, research, scholarship, and commitment to innovative educational opportunities, invites applications and nominations for the position of General Counsel.

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