General Counsel

OverviewJoin to apply for the General Counsel role at Western Illinois University.Location: Macomb, ILPosted: See job posting detailsResponsibilitiesThe General Counsel's primary role is to provide legal advice to the President and support the University in all legal matters. The General Counsel assists the executive administration and the Board of Trustees in legal matters and compliance. The General Counsel is responsible for the management and allocation of duties within the Office of General Counsel.Administrative Matters - Represent or coordinate the representation of the University in external administrative agency hearings and proceedings (EEOC, OCR, Illinois Human Rights Commission, HUD, and related agencies). May serve as part of an administrative team during employment-related grievance hearings and arbitration, and negotiations of benefits, collective bargaining, and other labor-management issues.Academic and Human Resource Matters - Direct representation on hiring and management of outside counsel. Advise and resolve First Amendment and intellectual property matters. Coordinate and collaborate with Human pliance - Provide legal guidance related to compliance with federal, state, and local laws. Coordinate with Risk Management, Human Resources, and other offices.Corporate Governance - Attend Board of Trustees meetings. Assist the administration and Board in institutional matters through confidential counsel and review. Help maintain compliance with the Open Meetings Act.Freedom of Information Act - Supervise FOIA processes and officers. Coordinate responses with the appropriate office.Ethics - Serve as the University Ethics Officer.Business and Financial Affairs - Review contracts on behalf of the University related to real estate and leases, construction, insurance, and procurement. Manage contract litigation and enforcement.Additional Responsibilities - Review and advise on matters referred by the President. Sign on behalf of the University for employment immigration matters. Monitor and review pending and new legislation with the Director of Governmental Relations. Analyze University policy and procedures and provide recommendations or revisions as requested.Administrative Duties - Review and answer correspondence. Perform other duties as assigned.SalarySalary: $131,000 - $160,000 per year. 12-month, 100% appointment.BenefitsWIU employees may be eligible for a variety of State of Illinois benefits administered through CMS, including health, dental, vision, life, AD&D, LTD, flexible spending accounts, 403(b) and 457(b) plans, and participation in the State Universities Retirement System (SURS). Other benefits may include paid time off, Employee Assistance Program, Tuition Waiver, and local discounts. For a full list of benefits, visit the WIU Benefits page.Questions on benefits or eligibility can be directed to or by calling 309-298-1971.QualificationsA current license to practice law in the State of Illinois or eligibility to achieve that license.Proven success as a practicing attorney providing legal guidance in a complex organization.Experience in legal research and administrative compliance initiatives.Exceptional analytical, interpersonal, and written and verbal communication skills, with sound judgment and professional integrity.Experience in or understanding of a unionized public-sector or higher education environment; demonstrable experience in contract law, negotiations, and employment law.Additional InformationJob function: Legal | Industry: Higher Education | Employment type: Full-time | Seniority level: Executive #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-21