Chief Legal & Compliance Counsel

The Center for Urban Community Services (CUCS) is a premier human services organization leading the way in addressing homelessness, poverty, and mental illness in New York City. With an annual operating budget exceeding $100 million, CUCS provides integrated housing, health, and social services that empower thousands of individuals each year to achieve stability and independence. Our 700+ employees deliver innovative and evidence-based programs—including supportive housing, medical and mental health care, employment services, and professional training—making CUCS a recognized leader in the sector. As we expand our impact, we remain committed to advancing equity, strengthening service delivery, and ensuring operational excellence across the organization.

CUCS seeks an experienced, mission-driven, collaborative, and innovative legal executive who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is committed to strengthening systems that support our mission. As the Chief Legal & Compliance Counsel, reporting to the Chief Operating Officer (COO) with a dotted line to the President/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), this individual will serve as the organization’s senior-most legal advisor, guiding strategic decision-making and safeguarding CUCS against legal, regulatory, and operational risk.

This role oversees all aspects of legal strategy, compliance, risk management, labor and employment law, real estate and development matters, litigation oversight, and governance support. The Chief Legal & Compliance Counsel will be a forward-thinking, solutions-oriented leader who brings both legal rigor and practical judgment, enabling CUCS to grow responsibly and sustainably.

Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Legal Strategy & Counsel

• Serve as the principal legal advisor to the CEO, Board of Directors, and Executive Leadership Team.

• Provide proactive counsel on strategic initiatives, organizational growth, and partnerships.

• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, MOUs, and agreements with vendors, funders, and partners.

Governance & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal laws and regulations.

• Advise on nonprofit governance and maintain compliance with 501(c)(3) requirements.

• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and training that reduce organizational risk.

Employment & Labor Law

• Provide counsel on employee relations, labor law compliance, and internal investigations.

• Partner with HR on issues relating to hiring, performance management, workplace policies, and benefits.

Real Estate

• Provide legal support for real estate acquisitions, leases, financing, and development agreements.

• Represent CUCS in supportive housing development efforts, including negotiations with governmental agencies and joint venture partners.

• Oversee HDFC formation packages, filings, and sponsor reviews for supportive housing projects.

• Lead risk assessment and mitigation strategies for CUCS-owned and managed properties.

Risk Management & Litigation

• Manage risk assessment and mitigation across programs and administrative departments.

• Oversee outside counsel for litigation and specialized legal issues.

• Conduct legal reviews to minimize exposure and strengthen compliance.

Board & Executive Support

• Prepare and review legal materials for Board meetings.

• Advise on bylaws, policy development, and governance responsibilities.

• Juris Doctor (JD) and admission to the New York State Bar (or eligibility for in-house counsel registration).

• 10+ years of progressive legal experience, with exposure to government, nonprofit, real estate, or supportive housing sectors preferred.

• Expertise in contracts, governance, employment/labor law, and compliance.

• Strong strategic thinking and the ability to offer practical, business-minded legal advice.

• Effective leadership and collaboration skills across diverse teams.

• Exceptional communication and negotiation abilities.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• Health Savings Account (HSA) & Flexible Spending Accounts

• Short-Term Disability and Paid Family Leave

• Voluntary Life Insurance

• Aflac Supplemental Plans

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Commuter Benefits

• 403(b) and 457(b) Retirement Plans

• Tuition Reimbursement

• Time Off:

  • Up to 17 days PTO in year one; 20 days after one year; 27 days after five years

  • 10 Sick Days

  • 3 Personal Days

  • 12 Paid Holidays