General Counsel

Overview The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) is a mission‑driven non‑profit dedicated to ensuring the future of elk, other wildlife, their habitat, and our hunting heritage. Since 1984, we have conserved nearly one square mile of elk country daily and aim to protect 10 million acres by 2030. Key Responsibilities Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Provide strategic legal guidance to the leadership team and Board of Directors. Review, negotiate, and manage contracts. Develop and implement policies on legal and business matters. Oversee and manage litigation. Support mission‑driving initiatives such as land acquisitions, conservation easements, and philanthropic development. Advise on employment law and related matters. Location RMEF’s Headquarters office in Missoula, Montana. Qualifications Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school. Licensed to practice law. Education and Experience Ten or more years of legal experience in the following areas: Non‑profit law (fundraising, donations, tax‑exempt, compliance, regulations). Land acquisitions, environmental law, conservation easements. Corporate and nonprofit governance; Board advisory experience. Contract drafting, negotiating, and operationalizing compliance. Employment law. Privacy, data security, and cybersecurity. Managing and hiring outside counsel. Managing staff. Essential Functions Legal Strategy and Compliance Ensure RMEF and affiliates comply with applicable laws. Provide strategy related to advocacy and political activities. Maintain nonprofit and tax‑exempt compliance. Coordinate with outside counsel and leadership. Advise on employment law risks. Board Governance Advise Board and Governance Committee on fiduciary duties, governance best practices, and related matters. Draft and update bylaws and governing documents. Prepare and review Board meeting minutes, resolutions, and governance materials. Provide legal counsel and training to the Board and committees. Serve as the organization’s Secretary in accordance with bylaws. Organizational Program Support Provide legal guidance for Mission Operations initiatives (land transactions, access agreements, conservation easements). Assist with major gifts, planned giving, and donor activities. Collaborate with HR and outside counsel on employment matters, policies, and regulatory compliance. Serve as key legal advisor on major business transactions (acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures). Assist with the negotiation of complex transactions. Supervision of Others Supervise RMEF’s legal staff and oversee external legal counsel for the Board and other entities. Additional Responsibilities Perform other work as required. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities Deep understanding of RMEF’s mission and ability to discuss it with staff, board, donors, volunteers, and external parties. Knowledge of Land Trust Alliance standards. Strong analytical, quantitative, and problem‑solving skills. Excellent communication skills; ability to present to large groups. Collaborative mindset; function as strategic partner with senior management. Leadership skills; ability to motivate and lead staff. Commitment to confidentiality and proper handling of privileged information. Customer‑service orientation and teamwork across departments. Independent work ability and focus on goals. Stress tolerance and time‑management under pressure. Budget‑management skills. Physical Demands Sit or stand for lengthy periods; use a computer terminal; reach forward and to the side. Occasional evening and weekend work; some travel may be required. #J-18808-Ljbffr