Legal Counsel

JOB SUMMARY:

Working at the direction of the General Counsel, the Legal Counsel is dedicated and detail-oriented with 3-5 years of legal experience. The Legal Counsel will be responsible for drafting and reviewing contracts, providing legal support for organizational initiatives, and overseeing the legislative rule-making process, including the development and revision of association rules. This role is ideal for a candidate with a passion for equestrian sport and a commitment to furthering the mission of not-for-profit organizations.

This role participates as a member of the legal team and is responsible for contributing to the development and implementation of the strategic legal plan to support organizational strategies and objectives. Additionally, the Legal Counsel will perform tasks that assist the General Counsel with guiding strategic and tactical legal initiatives. The Legal Counsel will provide support to the General Counsel.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide variety of contracts, including sponsorship and vendor agreements, and ensure compliance with applicable laws.
• Analyze contract language to ensure legal clarity, accuracy, and risk mitigation.
• Draft procedures for selection of athletes to compete in international competition.
• Advise association leadership and staff on legal matters related to operations, compliance, and risk management.
• Oversee the legislative rule-making process for the association, including the development, drafting, and interpretation of rules and policies.
• Coordinate with committees and external stakeholders to ensure rules and policies comply with applicable laws and best practices.
• Provide training and guidance to staff, volunteers, and members regarding rules, policies, and legal compliance.
• Assist in responding to inquiries, disputes, and grievances related contracts.
• Support the association’s mission and values by ensuring legal and ethical standards are maintained in all activities.
• Provide support or taking lead on tasks or initiatives as requested by the General Counsel.
  
  

Education and Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active license to practice law in Kentucky.
• 3-5 years of experience in contract law, legislative drafting, or a related legal field, preferably with experience in sports, nonprofit, equine, or association sector.
• High attention to legal detail and document accuracy
• Strong knowledge of legislative processes and rule-making procedures.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• High ethical standards and sound judgment.
• Strong time management in fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Ability to establish and maintain strong relationships within the organization’s legal department and across all business units.
  
  

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 10 pounds and occasional lifting and/or moving up to 25 pounds. (Anything over 25 pounds requires a two-person lift)

US Equestrian is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, marital status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We strongly encourage applications from black, indigenous, and people of color, immigrants, women, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and other underrepresented and historically marginalized groups.