Senior Counsel

Job Overview As the Senior Counsel, you’ll be responsible for providing strategic, practical, and business‑focused legal advice to support the growth and success of the business. The Senior Counsel serves as a trusted advisor to the Regional General Counsel, executives, and operational leaders, helping to identify, assess, and mitigate legal issues and risks while enabling sound business decision‑making, and providing hands‑on assistance to our Regional General Counsel which will be shared with the executives & business teams to address critical legal and business challenges. This hybrid position may report to our corporate offices in either midtown Manhattan, NY; Dallas, TX; or Chicago, IL. This role requires occasional travel to the respective markets, with additional travel as needed. Your Responsibilities Analyze complex legal and business issues and assist in developing strategic alternatives and actionable recommendations Collaborate with the legal team on knowledge management initiatives, template standardization, playbooks, and process improvements to improve efficiency and consistency Provide timely, practical, solutions‑oriented counsel that balances legal, risk, and business objectives Identify emerging risks and trends impacting FirstService and recommend mitigation strategies and process improvements Expertly draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of commercial contracts to protect FirstService’s interests while also advancing the company’s business objectives Identify and advise on risk allocation, compliance obligations, and contractual protections Support regional and national transactions and initiatives as needed Draft, negotiate and advise on commercial and residential leasing agreements Advise on real estate law, including landlord‑tenant law, leasing regulations, rent stabilization/rent control and housing court processes Manage pre‑litigation disputes, demand letters and claims Review Paralegal work relating to document production in response to subpoenas Communicate with client counsel regarding subpoena production responses Provide guidance on regulatory and compliance matters relevant to operations Partner with the operations team to implement policies, training, and internal controls Support governance needs for the FirstService Residential as assigned Interpret and advise on state and local regulations including, but not limited to, housing rules, ordinances and compliance Identify and reduce legal and operational risks through practical, business aligned solutions Skills & Qualifications Juris Doctor (JD) degree or higher from an ABA‑accredited law school. Active member in good standing with the bar in one or more of the following states: Texas, Illinois, New York, or New Jersey. 5+ years’ experience in licensed legal practice. Demonstrated experience drafting, reviewing, and negotiating complex commercial agreements is required. Experience working in multi‑state, service‑based, regulated, or real estate/property‑related environments preferred. Broad legal expertise across areas such as real estate, corporate law, litigation, and labor/employment law. Works effectively with coworkers, clients, customers, and others by sharing ideas in a constructive and positive manner; addresses problems and issues constructively to find mutually acceptable and practical business solutions. Must possess a high energy attitude and an ability to multi‑task/prioritize different projects at any given time. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint). What We Offer As a full‑time associate, you will be eligible for full comprehensive benefits including your choice of multiple medical plans, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑term and long‑term disability, legal, identity theft, and pet insurance. You will also be eligible for company‑paid life insurance and benefits from our employee assistance program. In addition, you will be eligible for paid time off, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, and a 401(k) with company match. Compensation $ 150000 - $ 175000 / year #J-18808-Ljbffr FirstService Residential