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UC OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
At the University of California (UC), your contributions make a difference. A world leader producing Nobel and Pulitzer prize recipients with over 150 years of groundbreaking research transforming the world. Choose a career where you can leverage your knowledge, skills and aspirations to inspire and support some of the greatest minds in the world, and those who will follow in their footsteps. Working at the University of California is being part of a unique institution, and a vibrant and diverse community. At the University of California, Office of the President, we propel our mission through impactful work locally, in government centers and systemwide. We are passionate people, serving the greater good.
The University of California, one of the largest and most acclaimed institutions of higher learning in the world, is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research and public service. The University of California Office of the President is the headquarters to the 10 campuses, five medical centers and three national laboratories and enrolls premier students from California, the nation and the world. Learn more about the UC Office of the President
POSITION SUMMARY
The Senior Counsel, Litigation oversees outside counsel and directly handles various types of litigation and adversarial proceedings involving the University. The emphasis will be on direct handling of internal administrative hearings and writ petitions challenging those decisions. The position will also handle proceedings under the California Public Records Act, commercial disputes, and consumer class actions. The attorney will be involved in all phases of litigation, including trial, appeal, and representation of University witnesses in depositions. The position involves providing advice on legal issues affecting all campuses, medical centers, the Office of the President and the University at-large, including assisting with the development of effective compliance and risk mitigation strategies to facilitate the University's complex operations.
This position does not handle matters that are covered by the University's employment, general liability, and medical malpractice insurance programs.
The position requires the ability to handle the most complex and challenging legal matters, litigation and projects. The position demands that the successful candidate be able to provide actionable and practical advice based on sophisticated interpretation of facts and law in an atmosphere of ambiguity. The position may require the provision of functional advice, training, and/or guidance to less-experienced attorneys, and participation in the review, revision and establishment of University-wide policies and procedures. The position will require management and oversight of outside counsel. The successful candidate will need to be able to work independently with minimal supervision.
By practicing OGC's established Values for Principles of Community, all employees are expected to create and maintain a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment.
Required Qualifications
Requires at least 8 years 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 and 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 communication 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.
Preferred Qualifications
Ability to foresee implications in a University setting, even when ambiguous or hidden.
Education: Must possess a J.D. from an accredited law school.
License/Certifications: Required to be a member in good standing of the California Bar.
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW
UC Legal - Office of the General Counsel (UCL) provides legal services to the university, including representation, advice, research and training. We also provide legal opinions to the Board of Regents, administration, faculty, staff and others acting on the university's behalf. We report jointly to the Board of Regents and the president.
SALARY AND BENEFITS
Salary: Commensurate with experience
Benefits: For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University visit: Benefits of Belonging
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
HOW TO APPLY
Please be prepared to attach a cover letter and resume with your application.
APPLICATION REVIEW DATE
The first review date for this job is November 24, 2020. The position will be open until filled.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Background Check Process: Successful completion of a background check is required for this critical position. Background check process at UCOP
Smoke Free Work Environment: The University of California, Office of the President, is smoke & tobacco-free as of January 1, 2014. UC Smoke & Tobacco Free Policy
EEO STATEMENT
The University of California, Office of the President, is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. EEO/AA Employer UC Nondiscrimination Policy
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About University of California Office of the President
The Office of the President is the systemwide headquarters of the University of California, managing its fiscal and business operations and supporting the academic and research missions across its campuses, labs and medical centers.
