General Counsel

JOBThe General Counsel is the chief legal officer for the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and the Council for Community and Technical College Education. The Commission and Council are the coordinating agencies of multi-institutional statewide systems for higher education. The general counsel provides legal services, advocates, advises, and represents the interests of the Commission, the Council, chancellors, senior staff and others on legal matters affecting both higher education systems. This is a senior, cabinet-level position for the state higher education central office. Classification: Full Time, Non-Classified, Exempt, Benefits-Eligible.EXAMPLE OF DUTIESLead the Legal Division of the Commission and Council and its three-person team of assistant attorneys general, as well as outside counsel.Manage the budget of the Legal Division and issue contracts for legal services.Serve as attorney to the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and the Council for Community and Technical College Education in legal matters.Serve as parliamentarian and ethics advisor to the Commission, Council, institutional boards, and staff.Review Commission and Council resolutions and policies for form and legality.Manage the Commission’s and Council’s legal representation in litigation and administrative proceedings.Provide legal advice to attorneys employed by system institutions.Collaborate with the West Virginia Office of the Attorney General and Secretary of State to promulgate Commission and Council approved rules.Provide presentations and training to a variety of stakeholder groups about statutory, legal and rulemaking procedures.Review proposed policies and policy updates for legal compliance.Review institutional presidential employment contracts brought before the Commission and Council for approval.Provide counsel concerning compliance with federal and state statutes and regulations affecting institutions of higher education.Offer legal advice, including preventative legal services and legal representation in monitoring and resolving disputes.Resolve legal claims, initiating and appealing lawsuits and administrative proceedings.Maintain an appropriate framework for internal control to evaluate and protect the Commission’s and Council’s legal interests.Serve as a legislative and intergovernmental liaison for the Commission and the Council.Track state and federal legislation that may affect the agencies or institutions.Review and recommend changes in statute applicable to West Virginia higher education.Work with senior staff to draft proposed legislation, rules and policies.Review Commission and Council contracts relating to employment, purchasing, real estate, patents and technology marketing.Serve as a member of the Chancellor’s Cabinet and perform other duties as assigned.REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:Broad knowledge of higher education principles, practices, issues and structures.Advanced oral and written communication and comprehension skills.Intimate knowledge of the workings of the legislative and executive branch of state government.High ethical standards with a strong commitment to legal ethics.Ability to carry out assignments requiring organization of material and analysis of data.Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.Ability to exercise group leadership skills emphasizing collaboration and conflict resolution.Exhibit sound judgment and professional integrity.Excellent organizational and time management skills.Strong supervision and management skills.Superb legal research, analytical, advocacy and problem-solving skills.Keen ability to resolve conflicts and negotiate with others.Understanding of parliamentary procedures of the West Virginia Legislature.Proven litigation and appellate advocacy experience.SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATIONClosing Date:

November 13, 2024Application Process:

In addition to filling out the online application, qualified candidates must submit a letter of interest and contact information for three professional references. IMPORTANT: Your eligible score will be based on information provided in your application; therefore, make sure the work experience section in your application is detailed and complete.Final candidates are subject to employment and credential verification, as well as reference and background checks. Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer/Veterans/Disabled.The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and the Community and Technical College System of West Virginia are equal opportunity employers.

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