Counsel

Who we are Samsonite is the worldwide leader in superior travel bags, luggage, and accessories combining notable style with the latest design technology and the utmost attention to quality and durability. For more than 100 years, Samsonite has leveraged its rich heritage to create unparalleled products that fulfill the travel lifestyle needs of conscious movers everywhere. With a portfolio of brands including Samsonite, Tumi, American Tourister, High Sierra, Gregory, Hartmann, and Lipault Paris, our products are sold in over 100 countries in North America, Asia, Europe and Latin America through our company-operated retail store, websites and a variety of retail partners. Job Description As a part of a small and collegial legal team you will be the primary legal advisor for the Human Resources department and a partner to the Samsonite U.S. and Canadian business teams. In this role you will oversee employment related matters primarily for the Samsonite Group’s US and Canadian region and from time to time, provide employment law support on projects for other regions and the Group’s corporate function. You will work directly with all members of the Human Resources department across the Samsonite Group’s family of brands and with other internal clients throughout the organization. The role is also responsible for advising, and liaising with, the Group’s Risk Management Department in connection with the management of workers’ compensation related claims, disputes, and litigation. In addition to these responsibilities, you will be responsible for a wide range of matters such as drafting, reviewing and negotiating contracts; identifying and advising internal clients on a variety of legal issues, providing advice on a range of compliance matters, managing litigation and administrative matters; and providing practical, risk‑based guidance that balances legal compliance with business objectives throughout the U.S. and Canada. You will work on‑site 4 days per week with the opportunity to work remotely one day per week. Key Employment Law Responsibilities Provides legal advice and support to the HR department on employment issues, including but not limited to leaves of absence and accommodations; wage and hour compliance (including time keeping, overtime, meal and rest breaks, sick time, and paid leave); internal investigations; recruiting; work authorizations; compensation and benefits; and performance management. Drafts and reviews employment‑related agreements, offer letters and policies. Supports executive and key employee compensation arrangements, including incentive plans. Prepares responses to agency inquiries (e.g., EEOC). Conducts relevant training for the HR team and other departments. Drafts, reviews and negotiates various (non‑employment related) types of contracts and advises internal clients on contract interpretation and legal ramifications of contract terms. Proactively monitors legal developments and recommends preventative strategies. Works closely with other departments to foresee and protect company against legal risks. Oversees outside counsel, disputes and litigation. Assists the Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel, the Americas with various matters. Qualifications 5+ years of relevant experience JD from an accredited law school and admission to at least one state bar (in good standing) Strong knowledge of federal and state employment laws, experience advising in multi‑state environments, and a strong interest in gaining more general legal experience Experience drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts and advising clients of contractual risks in a concise manner Experience advising internal clients on U.S. employment law matters (Canadian employment law knowledge a plus) Excellent communication, interpersonal, and writing skills. A collaborative client‑focused approach while being detail‑oriented Effective client counselling and relationship‑building skills at all levels of the company Ability to simultaneously manage numerous projects consistent with the company’s business objectives and prioritize work to meet deadlines Ability to work independently and perform effectively in a fast‑paced environment as part of a small team Ability to assess issues from both legal and business perspectives to clearly define risks and plan next steps An understanding of business objectives and the role of in‑house counsel in helping achieve such objectives Deliver the overall objectives of the legal team Consumer product/retail and in‑house experience a plus About The Team Why you’ll love working here Our employees matter. As a people‑focused business, we work hard to provide meaningful rewards and development opportunities for our employees, recognizing performance, and creating a supportive working environment for them, wherever they are based. Vibrant culture. We are committed to a diverse and rich culture, welcoming people from all walks of life. Our long‑standing commitment to diversity and inclusion empowers us to bring our authentic selves and unique differences to work every day. Socially responsible. We want to minimize our products’ impact on the environment and help create positive journeys worldwide. We do this by creating the best products using the most sustainable and innovative materials, methods, and models. What We Value At Samsonite, we do more than create the bags that move with our consumer, we inspire and celebrate the moments that move them. We believe we have a responsibility to the world in how we operate, the products we sell, the communities where we live and work, and how we treat the people we employ. We're as diverse as travel itself, and like travel, your journey with Samsonite presents the opportunity to be a part of something bigger and explore your passions. This is why we offer various paths for professionals and celebrate the knowledge and skills they bring to our team. We are committed to a respectful workplace that allows our team members to bring their best selves to the workplace daily. Samsonite is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to promoting and maintaining a work environment in which all applicants, associates, customers, and other individuals are treated with dignity and respect free from unlawful harassment, discrimination, or retaliation. #J-18808-Ljbffr Samsonite