General Counsel

Reports to: Executive Team and Board of Directors Type: Full-time Location: Remote/Flexible within the U.S. ABOUT CATF Clean Air Task Force (CATF) is a nonprofit organization working to safeguard against the worst impacts of climate change by catalyzing the rapid global development and deployment of low‑carbon energy and other climate‑protecting technologies. This is accomplished through research and analysis, public advocacy leadership, and partnership with the private sector. CATF is highly respected for its deep expertise and research on energy and industrial systems and potential strategies, technologies, and policies that can radically shrink their impact on the planet’s atmosphere. Our team of experts and advocates (and global network of subject matter experts and civil society partners) put this research and knowledge into action by designing and enacting public policies that drive toward zero emissions. We also support policies and work directly with private industry to innovate in technology to make the path to zero emissions swift and affordable. CATF has offices in Boston, Washington D.C., and Brussels, with staff working virtually around the world. ROLE The General Counsel serves as the corporate legal officer for CATF, a U.S. nonprofit 501(c)(3) and its affiliate Clean Air Task Force Action, Inc. (CATF Action), a U.S. 501(c)(4) corporation, both incorporated and headquartered in Massachusetts. The General Counsel will advise CATF and CATF Action on all aspects of nonprofit law, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, and supporting the nonprofit’s mission on administrative matters, including but not limited to risk management, employment, contractual, and ethical matters and will provide advice and support to the organizations’ leadership and Boards of Directors. The General Counsel will be an experienced and mission‑driven legal leader who brings deep expertise in nonprofit law, governance, and risk management. They will serve as a trusted advisor to the Executive Director, executive team, and Board of Directors, guiding CATF and CATF Action through a complex and evolving legal landscape. The ideal candidate is a collaborative partner who can translate corporate legal requirements into practical guidance, support organizational growth, and ensure strong compliance across all areas of operation. Key Functions and Responsibilities Organizational Compliance Leadership Demonstrates deep expertise in tax‑exempt organization law, including 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4) and PAC regulations, lobbying requirements, and fundraising and grantmaking considerations. Ensures compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, as well as non‑U.S. requirements relevant to CATF’s operations. Negotiates, and reviews complex domestic and international contracts, non‑disclosure agreements, MOUs, and other agreements with partners and vendors. Oversees intellectual property, licensing, data privacy, and cybersecurity matters to ensure compliance with applicable laws. Supports Human Resources on labor issues, workplace policy, employee relations, and compliance. Demonstrates commitment to CATF’s mission, values, and the public‑interest role of nonprofit advocacy organizations. Governance & Risk Management Provides legal advice to CATF and CATF Action’s Executive Teams and Boards of Directors. Prepare and present complex information clearly to board members, senior executives, and diverse stakeholders. Maintain and update bylaws, governance policies, and organizational compliance documents. Identify, assess, and mitigate legal, regulatory, and operational risks across the organization. Guide compliance with data privacy, cybersecurity, lobbying, employment, and ethical rules and standards, and other organizational requirements. Design and implement comprehensive risk‑management frameworks to support global operations. Organizational Legal Leadership Serve as a trusted advisor to the Executive Director, executive leadership team, and program staff across the organization. Provide legal guidance on corporate strategic initiatives, partnerships, regulatory considerations, and organizational growth opportunities. Translate corporate legal requirements into practical, operational guidance that supports effective executive and Board‑level decision‑making. Anticipate risks and opportunities across a complex, global organization and advise leadership accordingly. Establish, and lead an internal corporate law function, including reviewing and updating forms, policies, and processes. Engage with fundraising, philanthropic partnerships, and grantmaking activities, including drafting and negotiating donor‑related agreements. Skills/Qualifications Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school. Licensed and in good standing in the U.S., preferably barred in and familiar with Massachusetts corporate law. Ideally also familiar with international law requirements for US nonprofits operating overseas. Minimum 10 years of legal experience, preferably with exposure to nonprofit, corporate, and employment law. Prior experience serving on an in‑house counsel team, or with a firm advising nonprofit organizations. Demonstrated knowledge of state and federal laws governing U.S. nonprofit charitable organizations, and state charitable regulations. Familiarity with legal requirements pertaining to fundraising and grants, and with lobbying requirements and political activity restrictions applicable to U.S. 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) corporations operating in the U.S. and overseas. Excellent judgment, integrity, and ability to balance mission‑driven priorities with legal obligations. Exceptional communication skills, with ability to translate complex legal issues into clear guidance for the Executive Team, Board of Directors, and as needed, staff. Commitment to the organization’s mission and values. COMPENSATION AND LOCATION: This is a full‑time, remote position flexible within the United States, with preference given to candidates able to work in the East Coast time zone. CATF offers an excellent benefits package (details available on our careers page ) and an annual salary range of $235,401- $294,252, commensurate with experience. CATF provides equal employment opportunities. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: DSG | Koya has been exclusively retained for this engagement, which is being led by Liz Lombard, Managing Director and Angie Sessoms, Managing Associate. Express interest in this role by filling out our Talent Profile or emailing the Angie Sessoms directly at View email address on click.appcast.io. All inquiries and discussions are strictly confidential. DSG | Koya is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals living with disabilities. If you are a qualified individual living with a disability and need assistance expressing interest online, please email View email address on click.appcast.io. If you are selected for an interview, you will receive additional information regarding how to request an accommodation for the interview process. CATF provides equal employment opportunities. #J-18808-Ljbffr