Description

Applications are currently being sought to fill the position of General Counsel for the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA). GLWA is a publicly owned utility that has entered into long-term lease agreements with the City of Detroit for the operation of the regional water supply and sewage disposal systems. On January 1, 2016, GLWA began providing regional water and sewage services to Southeast Michigan communities. Services are provided to over 127 communities throughout the region, covering eight counties, and representing almost 40% of Michigan’s population. GLWA is guided by a six-member Board of Directors who appoint the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) responsible for the utility’s operations. GLWA has approximately 1,123 employees. The General Counsel is an at-will employee appointed by and serving at the pleasure of GLWA’s CEO.

The General Counsel serves as GLWA’s Chief Legal Officer and directs, plans, coordinates, and supervises the operations and activities for legal strategy and matters impacting GLWA. The General Counsel position requires a high level of independent judgment, initiative, and discretion as well as the ability to develop and implement policies and procedures, develop and administer budgets, organize tasks, and set priorities. The General Counsel leads the Office of General Counsel and is responsible for the efficient and effective direction, operation, and management of that Office and its legal support for GLWA.

Requirements

Job Responsibilities

Serve as the Chief Legal Officer for GLWA
Oversee management, development, conduct, and oversight of legal matters impacting the organization
Lead the Office of General Counsel in an efficient and effective direction
Provide legal support to GLWA and its Board
Prepare, coordinate, represent, and support GLWA’s representation in legislative and public processes and proceedings
Prepare, prosecute, coordinate, represent, litigate, or assist in the litigation of GLWA’s interests in administrative proceedings and cases, ranging in difficulty and impacting Michigan or federal jurisprudence
Conduct or assist in the conduct of investigations
Research, draft, prepare, and review legal documents including but not limited to forms, contracts, memoranda, opinions, client advisories, and correspondence
Develop, coordinate, implement, and conduct legal strategy and negotiations in support of GLWA’s business objectives 
Provide advice, counsel, and support for business initiatives 
Maintain current active membership in the State Bar of Michigan with knowledge of law and practice in relevant areas
Follow safety policies and procedures in carrying out duties 

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree
Juris Doctor’s degree from a law school approved by the American Bar Association preferred 
Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in the practice of law
Two (2) years of supervisory or law office management experience

Preferred Experience 

Ten (10) years of progressive responsibility in at least one of the following practice areas: Municipal Law, Employment Law, Litigation, Contracts, Administrative Law, Utility Law, and/or Municipal Bond work 
Three (3) years of legal managerial experience, supervising both in-house counsel and outside counsel
Prior legal experience working with a utility is preferred

Other Requirements

Valid Michigan Driver’s License
Ability to work irregular hours, commute to GLWA facilities and work sites, and respond to after-hour emergencies and on-call responses