General Counsel

Direct, organize and manage the activities of the Legal Department as well as the procurement and employer compliance review functions of the Fund. This position will: develop IMRF policy; identify impact of legislative changes and provide legislative guidance; provide advice to staff and the Board of Trustees related to the Illinois Pension Code and other federal and state laws and regulations, legislation; coordinate internal and external litigation and provide oversight and guidance related to the Fund’s procurement function.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Sets policy for IMRF through recommendations to the Board of Trustees and participation on the Senior Management Team.
• Provides legal advice to Executive Director, staff, and Board of Trustees. Coordinates litigation and contract review with the Associate General Counsel or with external counsel. Works with staff to revise systems, procedures, communications, and training as required by legislative changes. Advises and assists the Investment Department as needed. Responsible for maintaining and updating the Authorized Agent’s Manual.
• Provide counsel to Human Resources on employment law matters.
• Manages the Legislative Liaison position; assists in drafting of legislative bills, develops strategy in working with legislative bodies; communicates activities to internal and external groups and individuals.
• Manages the Employer Compliance Manager position; assists in developing and implementing policies and procedures for effective employer compliance reviews; communicates activities to internal and external stakeholders as needed.
• Provides direction and guidance surrounding the procurement, employer compliance, and organizational compliance functions of the Fund.
• Advises employees, employers, members and beneficiaries, on complex issues regarding eligibility, benefits, tax issues, etc.
• Represents the organization to other state public retirement systems, including reciprocal conferences. May also be required to develop and maintain business relationships with groups indirectly related to IMRF.
• Serves as Chief Compliance Officer; Open Meetings Act Officer; and oversees a program of policies, procedures, and controls to maintain organizational compliance with applicable legal and regulatory compliance.
• Oversees special projects and participates on committees as required.

Management Responsibilities

• Carries out management responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience Required

• Must be licensed to practice law in Illinois.
• Must have bachelor’s degree (BA or BS).
• Must have JD degree from accredited law school.
• Previous management experience in a senior level law-related position at a public pension fund, along with comprehensive knowledge of legal practices and procedures, is required. Previous experience managing a comparable number of direct and indirect reports is strongly preferred.
• Must have comprehensive knowledge and experience in the legal aspects of public pensions, federal and state laws covering Social Security, pensions, disability and death benefits, human resources; municipality and school laws.
• Must have comprehensive knowledge and experience in the legislative process, including writing and interpreting statutes.
• Must have exceptional communication skills and the ability to present information in an understandable manner to all types of internal and external groups. Must have excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to relate to all levels of the organization as a representative of senior management.

Salary and Benefits

The expected annual salary range for this role is $169,862 - $186,848. Please note the salary information is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon candidate skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. The range listed is just one component of IMRF's total compensation package for employees.

Other factors include the following benefits:

• Pension, death, and disability benefits as a member of IMRF
• Generous insurance benefits, including medical and dental
• 35-hour base work week, Monday-Friday
• Paid vacation, paid sick, 12-13 paid holidays and 2 personal days
• Tuition reimbursement
• Business casual attire