Chief Counsel, Government Contracts

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.

Our people at JLL and JLL Technologies are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world-class services, advisory, and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers, and find a place where they belong. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades, or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

Chief Counsel – Government Contracts

JLL’s Chief Counsel—Government Contracts provides a high level of professional legal service and advice on a wide array of legal issues regarding JLL’s Government Contracting business, and will interact with members of senior business leadership, the legal team, external counsel, clients, suppliers, outside agencies, and others as required to perform their job responsibilities. Areas of practice will include, but are not limited to, research, compliance, contracts and transactional work, professional services, facilities management, real estate, employee matters, intellectual property, risk management, and other areas as needed.

Desired Skills and Experience

• Strong contract interpretation and drafting skills
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; must be adept at identifying key legal issues, developing creative solutions to complicated legal problems, and effectively communicating the same to internal stakeholders and clients
• In-depth knowledge of FAR and DFARS, including rules surrounding commercial products and commercial services, prevailing wage laws, and cost and pricing rules
• Experience negotiating Government contracts, subcontracts, teaming agreements, and NDAs
• Knowledge of Government ethics compliance
• Understanding of risk management/mitigation issues as they relate to contracts for professional services

Core Responsibilities

• Review, consult on, and draft, as necessary, contracts with the Federal Government, State/Local/Education (SLED) clients, prime contractors, and vendors, including but not limited to: facilities management contracts, research agreements, commercial real estate transactions, sustainability contracts, and P3 advisory contracts
• Supervise and mentor Government Contracts legal staff and associated workload
• Coordinate with business and external counsel (as appropriate) to develop optimal strategies to respond to and resolve commercial disputes, including litigation
• Advise and provide analysis on bid protests and contract disputes
• Advise on small business issues and assist with joint venture formation
• Develop, review, and update JLL policies, procedures, and template agreements regarding Government Contracting
• Act as trusted business partner who coordinates strategy with respect to government contracting, compliance, disputes, and best practices
• Stay abreast of developments in the law that will impact JLL and its operations
• Liaise with the firm’s Risk Management Department to identify/assess liability for provision of services
• Counsel business leaders and management with respect to compliance and ethics
• Create and conduct training on key legal, compliance, and ethics issues
• Enhance and support the department’s technology solutions and knowledge management efforts

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor from a top-tier law school with a strong academic record
• 10+ years of experience with a major law firm or corporate setting specializing in Government contract law, with significant experience negotiating contracts
• Combination of in-house experience and private practice is a plus
• Licensed to practice law in at least one U.S. state or District of Columbia
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills essential
• Able to conceptualize and articulate pragmatic/creative legal and business solutions to complex legal and business challenges
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a strong focus on collaboration
• Able to work independently, but in a team environment
• Acute attention to detail

Estimated total compensation for this position:

180,000.00 – 230,000.00 USD per year

The total compensation range is an estimate and not guaranteed. An employment offer is based on an applicant's education, experience, skills, abilities, geographic location, internal equity, and alignment with market data.

Location:

On-site – Chicago, IL, Washington, DC

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet all the requirements. We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!

Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth:

JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical, and emotional health. Some of these benefits may include:

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care
• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays