Corporate Counsel

Corporate Counsel

Since 1960, Benchmark has been connecting people and potential. We are committed to empowering those we serve to live as independently as possible, be included in their communities, and reach their full potential. This mission extends to our employees, who bring our mission to life each day. We actively strive to be a workplace that honors the unique experiences, perspectives, and strengths of our employees. We believe we are stronger, better, and more effective in our pursuits when we create space for everyone to be their authentic selves.

Benchmark Human Services has grown to become one of the most respected leaders in the country in the areas of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and behavioral health. We work with people of all ages at home, at work, and in the community through residential programs, employment services, crisis response, early intervention, and more. View our 65 Years of Stories campaign to learn more about the impact Benchmark employees have made across the country.

The Corporate Counsel will work alongside the Chief Legal Officer to provide legal guidance and support to the organization on a wide variety of legal matters. This role will have primary responsibility for drafting, reviewing and negotiating contracts, leases, and other legal documents. This role also involves ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, managing legal risks, and advising on corporate governance, contracts, and employment issues. Experience in contract, review, drafting and negotiation required. Experience in one or more of the following areas preferred: workers' compensation, real estate law, labor law, Not-for-profit law.

To make the most impact in this role, you will be working on-site at our Fort Wayne, Indiana headquarters, collaborating closely with the company's senior leadership. We provide relocation assistance.

Please submit a cover letter with application. Cover letters can be emailed to Lindsey Lee at View email address on click.appcast.io.

Benefits:

• Health, vision and dental insurance
• Life Insurance
• 401k plan with company match
• Relocation Assistance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Time Off and Sick Time Pay
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Advancement Opportunities
• Employee Discounts
• No billing hour requirement
• Continuing Legal Education
• Law Licenses Fee reimbursement
• and more!

Job Responsibilities:

• Primary responsibility for drafting, reviewing and negotiating contracts, leases, and other legal documents.
• Managing the contracting process including supervising contract specialist.
• Providing legal advice and guidance to senior leadership and other company departments on a wide range of legal issues and business matters.
• Conducting legal research and staying updated on changes in laws that may affect the company.
• Developing and implementing legal strategies to protect the company's interests.
• Provide legal counsel on issues arising from actual or anticipated lawsuits.
• Coordinate with external legal counsel as needed.
• Conduct and coordinate research into legal matters as needed.
• Represent the company in various legal proceedings.
• Prepare legal documents as necessary.
• Report any suspected, abuse, neglect or exploitation of individuals served to supervisor immediately.
• Comply with all standards to assure the health and safety of all individuals.

Qualifications:

• J.D. degree from an accredited law school
• Active member in good standing of a state bar of a state in which company operates.
• 4+ years of experience in corporate legal department or law firm.
• Ability to work in corporate headquarters in Fort Wayne, IN preferred. Remote work may be considered but preference will be given to candidates who can work on-site
• Strong background or skills in corporate and contract law.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong legal drafting and documentation skills.
• Ability to analyze complex legal issues and provide sound legal advice.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Attention to detail and a meticulous approach to work.
• Proficiency in legal research tools and software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• High level of professionalism and ethical standards.

Interested candidates can apply online at BenchmarkHS.com/Careers and submit a cover letter with their application.

Benchmark Human Services is an EOE/AAP Employer. Veterans, women, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.