UNIVERSITY OF ST. THOMAS COUNSEL

UNIVERSITY OF ST. THOMAS

COUNSEL

The University of St. Thomas, a Catholic liberal arts institution in Houston, Texas (UST), invites applications for the position of Counsel.

SUMMARY

The Counsel will serve as the primary contact and coordinator for the University on legal matters. This may include consulting with internal subject matter experts such as HR, conducting legal research, and consulting with outside counsel to help administrators and their staff understand legal issues. The role reports to the President of the University but is expected to engage with a variety of internal university stakeholders in support of activities including contract drafting, training, and compliance.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION

Advisory Support to University Departments

• People matters: Serve as a legal advisor to Student Affairs for matters related to student conduct; and support Human Resources on employee and labor and employee relations matters.
• Commercial matters: Review, draft, and negotiate contracts, and as needed, coordinate legal support for real and intellectual property matters as they arise (examples: trust & estates, trademarks).

Compliance Matters

• Work with Human Resources and other departments as needed on HR & legal/ compliance related training
• Support on Title IX, Clery Act, and other compliance matters, reporting, and government agency engagement (may serve as a Title IX coordinator, Investigator, or Decision Maker

Legal Operations

• Manage legal documents and record retention
• Manage legal services vendors (example: outside counsel) and budget
• As needed, assist in development of policies and business processes and procedures (examples: procurement and contracting processes)

The above is intended to serve as a summary, not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities required of the position. UST may amend or change the responsibilities, duties, and requirements of this position at any time.

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE, SKILLS

• A Juris Doctorate + a minimum of 3-5 years of legal experience required;
• Previous experience in higher education strongly preferred; previous experience representing a Catholic institution of higher education is a plus
• Ability to independently advise on Title IX matters
• Ability to leverage professional associations, professional network, technology, and similar resources to efficiently and cost effectively stay updated on relevant legal developments and advise the university accordingly
• General familiarity with non-profit and higher education law, employment law, Title IX, and Clery Act compliance
• A strong understanding of religious freedom matters, especially as they relate to faith-based higher education.
• Must be a member of the State Bar of Texas in good standing
• MS Office proficiency required

The University of Saint Thomas is committed to the religious, ethical, and intellectual traditions of Catholic higher education. As permitted by law, practicing Catholics who will advance the mission of the school are preferred for this position. However, the University invites all qualified applicants to apply.