Franchise Relations Legal Counsel

Position: Franchise Relations Counsel
Reports to: President & Chief Executive Officer
Location: Atlanta Headquarters (AAHOA)

Position Summary:
The Association is seeking a full-time Franchise Relations Counsel to serve as the primary point of contact for hotelier members on franchise-related issues. This role focuses on fostering strong franchisee-franchisor relationships, guiding members through operational and regulatory challenges, and supporting the CEO and senior leadership with franchise strategy, negotiations, and governance. The position balances franchise relations, member support, and legal guidance to ensure compliance and protect the Association’s interests.

Key Responsibilities

Franchise Relations & Member Support

• Serve as the primary liaison for hotelier members regarding franchisee/franchisor relationships, operational challenges, and regulatory compliance.
• Support members in understanding and implementing franchise agreements and FDD requirements.
• Provide guidance on improving operational efficiency, compliance, and risk management within franchise operations.
• Advise the CEO and leadership on potential contractual and franchise implications, balancing risk with operational needs.
• Facilitate member requests for information and guidance in accordance with Association policy.
• Serve as the point of contact with the Franchisors as appropriate.
• Serve as Team Liaison to Franchise and Industry Relations Committee, and the Franchise Services Committee, and participate in other Committees as needed.
• Review and summarize key terms from Franchise Agreements and FDDs.
• Analyze Federal, State, local and international laws and regulations and how they impact hotelier franchisees
• Support the Legal Department with contractual review and all related matters, and work closely with the Education Department to deliver high quality educational sessions that benefit the members.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Serve on the Executive Leadership Team to support strategic initiatives related to franchise relations, member services, and organizational growth.
• Travel as needed for business (approximately 4–6 times per year).

Qualifications

Required

• J.D. from an accredited law school preferred, with current bar membership a plus.
• 2-5+ years of experience in franchise operations, franchisee relations, or franchise law.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to work effectively with diverse members and leadership.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and strategic thinking skills.

Preferred

• Hospitality industry experience, particularly with hotels and franchise operations.
• Non-profit association experience.
• Knowledge of franchise agreements, FDDs, and regulatory requirements.

Additional Skills & Attributes

• Passion for helping hoteliers succeed and promoting strong franchise relationships.
• Collaborative, results-oriented approach with a willingness to roll up sleeves and get things done.
• Cultural awareness, respect for industry history, and ability to support organizational vision.
• Sound judgment under pressure with creative problem-solving abilities.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Ability to Relocate:

• Atlanta, GA 30342: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person