General Counsel

OVERVIEW

Merrick is seeking an experienced General Counsel to serve as the company's chief legal advisor and a strategic partner to executive leadership and business leaders across the organization. This role provides leadership and guidance on corporate governance, enterprise risk management, contracts, compliance, litigation, mergers and acquisitions, and other complex business matters. This position offers the opportunity to influence key business decisions, support the company's continued growth, and partner with leaders across a multidisciplinary, employee-owned engineering firm. In addition, this is a unique opportunity to shape and grow the legal function, establish the vision and strategy for the department, and build a framework that supports Merrick's long‑term success. For a legal leader who enjoys creating impact, driving change, and building a department that can evolve alongside a growing organization, this is an exciting and rewarding opportunity.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

Serve as the company's chief legal advisor, providing strategic counsel to executive leadership and the Board of Directors on legal, governance, compliance, risk, and business matters. Lead and develop the company's legal strategy, governance framework, enterprise risk management program, and compliance activities to support business objectives and long‑term growth. Oversee complex contracts, litigation, investigations, claims, and dispute resolution while ensuring effective management of legal risk. Provide legal leadership for mergers and acquisitions, strategic transactions, international operations, and other significant business initiatives. Serve as a trusted advisor on corporate governance, board matters, shareholder relations, ethics, and regulatory compliance. Establish and maintain company policies, delegated authorities, and training programs to promote legal compliance and risk mitigation. Manage outside counsel and legal service providers, including engagement strategy, performance, and budget oversight. Monitor legal and regulatory developments and advise leadership on emerging risks, business impacts, and recommended actions. Lead the legal department, including workforce planning, talent development, succession planning, budgeting, and operational excellence. Represent the company with regulators, industry associations, strategic partners, and other external stakeholders.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school. Active license and good standing to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction. Fifteen (15) or more years of progressively responsible legal experience, including significant in‑house leadership experience. Demonstrated experience advising executive leadership and Boards of Directors on corporate governance, enterprise risk management, compliance, litigation, contracts, and strategic business matters. Deep knowledge of corporate governance, enterprise risk management, compliance, litigation, contracts, corporate transactions, and business operations. Exceptional business judgment with the ability to translate complex legal issues into practical, business‑oriented recommendations. Proven ability to balance legal risk, ethical considerations, business objectives, and long‑term organizational interests. Experience leading high‑impact legal matters involving significant business, financial, regulatory, or reputational risk. Strong executive presence with exceptional communication, negotiation, influence, and relationship‑building skills. Demonstrated ability to build trusted partnerships across all levels of an organization while maintaining independence and professional integrity. Strong financial and operational acumen, including budget management, forecasting, outside counsel oversight, and resource prioritization. Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of ethics, confidentiality, and integrity. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook). Experience serving as a General Counsel, Deputy General Counsel, Associate/Assistant General Counsel, Divisional General Counsel, or in a comparable senior legal leadership role. Proven success leading and developing attorneys and legal professionals, including workforce planning, succession planning, performance management, and organizational change initiatives. Experience establishing legal department strategy, governance structures, priorities, operating procedures, and service delivery standards. Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship. Local candidates.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Experience supporting architecture, engineering, construction (AEC), government contracting, or professional services organizations. Experience with mergers and acquisitions, corporate transactions, international operations, and cross‑border legal matters. Experience working within employee‑owned, closely held, or privately held organizations. Experience managing complex litigation, regulatory matters, and enterprise‑wide compliance programs. Demonstrated success building, growing, or transforming a corporate legal function.

TOTAL REWARDS & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS

Employee Ownership – All eligible U.S. employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), sharing in the company’s success. Comprehensive Compensation & Benefits – Merrick & Company offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including health insurance, dental and vision coverage, and paid time off (PTO). Robust Referral Program – Earn incentives for referring top talent to join our team. Performance Reviews – Annual reviews to recognize contributions and support career growth. Professional Development – Access to ongoing training and development opportunities to build your skills and advance your career. Employee Recognition – Formal programs to celebrate achievements and outstanding performance. Peer Mentor Program – Get support and guidance through structured mentorship opportunities. And More – Additional programs and benefits designed to support your success and well‑being.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

At Merrick, every resume is carefully reviewed by our team of experienced human recruiters—never by AI. We are committed to a fully human‑centered hiring process, ensuring each candidate receives thoughtful, personalized attention at every stage. Merrick is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. Employment with Merrick is contingent upon completion of a pre‑employment background check, MVR check, and drug screen.

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