S&ME · 4 hours ago
Chief Counsel
Raleigh, NC
Full-time
Onsite
Director/Executive
10+ years expS&ME is hiring a Chief Counsel to serve on their Executive Leadership Team in Raleigh, NC. This role provides enterprise-level legal leadership, guiding decision-making and supporting the company's strategic objectives while managing legal exposure and influencing business strategy.
Civil EngineeringConsulting
No H1B
Responsibilities
Contract Management: Review, draft, and negotiate a wide range of contracts, leases, and service agreements. Provide legal approval and guidance to ensure favorable terms and risk mitigation
Legal Advisory: Offer strategic legal advice to management and internal teams. Conduct legal research and provide opinions on various issues affecting operations, contracts, and projects
Risk & Compliance: Assess commercial and legal risk in contracts and operational decisions. Help maintain quality standards, ensure compliance with safety guidelines, and contribute to internal governance practices
Dispute Management: Manage litigation and outside counsel relationships. Oversee the resolution of legal disputes and professional liability claims, including coordination with insurers
Insurance & Risk Management: Lead insurance coverage acquisition, claim reporting, and internal procedures to support professional liability prevention and resolution
Client Coaching & Negotiations: Coach internal teams on prioritizing contract changes and conducting complex negotiations. Assist in developing negotiation strategies and business solutions
Cross-functional Communication: Translate complex legal language into clear guidance for non-legal stakeholders. Support internal policy development and communicate legal strategy effectively across departments
Qualification
Required
Juris Doctorate (JD) required
Must be licensed to practice law and eligible for a North Carolina in-house license (Rule 712)
10+ years of relevant legal experience in Professional Services, ideally with a focus on contract law, risk management, insurance, and working in or with engineering/consulting firms
Strong drafting and negotiation skills
Excellent written and verbal communication
Proven ability to assess and prioritize legal risks
Strong leadership, interpersonal, and coaching skills
Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities
Familiarity with litigation, claims management, and insurance coordination
Benefits
Comprehensive Health & Wellness Programs
Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
Wellness Program offering $50 off per month on 2027 premiums
Pet Insurance for your furry family members
100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
401(k) Retirement Plan to help you plan ahead
Term Life & Long-Term Care Coverage - available Spring 2026
Paid Holidays, PTO with rollover options, and Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave
Mentorship & Career Development Programs, Tuition Reimbursement, and Credential Incentive Program
Employee Recognition Program, $2,000 Referral Bonuses, and a company vehicle & fuel card for project-based roles
Company
S&ME
S&Me is a local geotechnical engineering firm which offers diverse engineering, design, environmental sciences, and construction services.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Matt Ryan
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) + Board of Directors
Rachel Tzortzis, CPA
Chief Financial Officer
Company data provided by crunchbase