Senior Counsel

Senior Counsel

Overview LabConnect improves lives by partnering with pharmaceutical and biotech companies, and clinical research organizations (CROs) to accelerate the development of new medicines around the world. We are an independent, global, one-stop-shop focused on delivering Central Laboratory Services that are tailor-made, timely and flexible to meet the evolving study demands of traditional to increasingly complex trials. Additionally, we provide Functional Service Provider (FSP) Solutions, supporting our clients with scientific and technical expertise, acting as an extension of their team, coordinating all laboratory related needs, advising on strategies for lab data collection and providing end-to-end analytical and logistical solutions.

Location: Atlanta, GA; Raleigh, NC; or Remote (U.S.)

Role Summary

As Senior Counsel, you will report to the Chief Legal Officer and serve as a trusted legal partner to LabConnect's business teams, guiding the global commercial transactions that power the world's most agile central laboratory solutions partner. The ideal candidate brings a pragmatic mindset, sound judgment, customer focus, and a bias for action.

You will have oversight of the contracts management team and draft, negotiate, and manage agreements across LabConnect's central lab services, global laboratory alliance network, and technology platforms, working with biotechnology and pharmaceutical sponsors, contract research organizations (CROs), lab partners, and vendors in support of complex global clinical trials.

Beyond deal execution, the role encompasses regulatory and compliance advisory, support for strategic transactions, and continuous improvement of the legal function's processes and tools.

LabConnect's vision is a future where study complexity no longer stands in the way of bringing medical innovation to patients. This is an opportunity to shape legal strategy at a company whose mission is to simplify and orchestrate complex medical innovation through excellence in global execution.

Responsibilities

• Draft, negotiate, and manage the full lifecycle of commercial agreements (NDAs, MSAs, SOWs, COs, DPAs, BAAs, amendments, etc.) with pharmaceutical and biotechnology sponsors, CROs, global laboratory alliance partners, logistics providers, and technology vendors, ensuring terms protect LabConnect's risk profile while enabling rapid deal execution.
• Act as the go-to legal advisor for LabConnect's commercial, operations, and project management teams, translating complex legal and regulatory requirements into clear, actionable guidance that accelerates decision-making.
• Advise on regulatory and compliance matters spanning LabConnect's global operations, including multi-jurisdictional commercial regulations and data privacy.
• Develop, maintain, and update internal policies, standard operating procedures, and contract guidelines to keep pace with evolving legal and regulatory requirements across LabConnect's global operating footprint.
• Drive continuous improvement of the legal function's processes, templates, playbooks, and contract workflows to reduce cycle times, increase self-service capabilities for the business, and scale legal support in line with LabConnect's growth.
• Manage and mentor the contract management team, setting priorities, establishing performance standards, and fostering professional development aligned with LabConnect's values.
• Identify and assess legal and commercial risks in new and existing business relationships, proactively escalating issues to the Chief Legal Officer with recommended courses of action.
• Support strategic transactions, including laboratory alliance expansions, new service line launches, and potential acquisitions or partnerships, by conducting due diligence and drafting or reviewing transaction documents.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Ability to independently evaluate complex legal issues and deliver commercially pragmatic solutions in clear, accessible language to business stakeholders
• Ability to synthesize large volumes of information and present concise, well-structured recommendations to stakeholders at all levels of the organization
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to quickly assess potential for risk and opportunity
• Proven collaborator with strong analytical, advisory, and cross-functional consultation skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build trusted relationships across business functions and levels of seniority
• Confident communicator who can influence outcomes in negotiations and internal discussions
• Self-directed professional who takes ownership of matters from identification through resolution
• Meticulous attention to detail with polished contract drafting and redlining etiquette
• Demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities and deliver under tight timelines in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Word
• Proficiency in CRM (e.g., Salesforce), CLM (e.g., LinkSquares), legal AI (e.g., GC AI), and e-sign (e.g., DocuSign).

Education and Experience

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school and active membership in good standing with at least one U.S. state bar.
• 5–7 years of experience advising on commercial and operational matters, preferably in laboratory services, clinical research, life sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or similar highly regulated environments.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Directly supervises the contract management team, including contract managers and contract specialists supporting LabConnect's global commercial operations.
• Sets team priorities and allocates workload across the contract management function to meet business timelines, balancing deal volume against individual development goals.
• Reviews and approves team work product, including contract drafts, redlines, and negotiation summaries, to maintain quality and consistency across LabConnect's commercial agreements.
• Establishes performance standards, conducts regular performance evaluations, and creates individualized development plans to grow team members' legal, commercial, and technical competencies in line with LabConnect's values.
• May provide guidance and work direction to cross-functional colleagues or outside counsel on specific projects without direct supervisory authority over those individuals.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Sit at a desk or workstation for extended periods while working on a computer.
• Use a computer, keyboard, mouse, and headset to draft documents, conduct legal research, and participate in phone, video, and web-based conferences.
• Communicate clearly and effectively in English, both orally and in writing, including the ability to read and interpret complex legal documents and contracts on screen.
• Use hands, fingers, and wrists with sufficient dexterity to operate a computer, keyboard, and other standard office equipment.

Travel Requirements:

Travel is expected approximately 10% of working time, primarily to LabConnect's Raleigh, NC headquarters for team meetings, business reviews, and cross-functional collaboration.

Compensation and Benefits

The base salary range for this position is $190,000 to $220,000, depending on experience, qualifications, and location. Actual compensation may vary based on individual qualifications and geographic considerations.

LabConnect offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) with company match; paid time off; and other benefits. For a complete description of benefits, contact Human Resources.

One Global Team

At LabConnect, we are proud to be one global team: united by our shared mission to advance clinical trials through innovation, agility, and collaboration. We believe that our people are our greatest asset, and we are committed to fostering a workplace that reflects our core values: People First, Quality Focused, Customer Centered, Technology Driven, and Accountability Always.

LabConnect is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), creed, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We are committed to cultivating a workplace that is safe, equitable, and respectful for all. Together, as one global team, we strive to ensure that every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to our shared success.

Join our team and discover how your work can impact patients' lives around the world!

Some of the Perks our LabConnectors Love:

• Financial Security (Base Pay, 401k Match and Possible Annual Bonus Eligibility)
• Health Benefits beginning on date of hire
• PTO plan, plus 11 Paid Company Holidays, and 1 Day to Volunteer in your community