Deputy Legal Officer, Governance

Virginia Union University (VUU) is a distinguished private institution founded in 1865 that proudly upholds a legacy of academic excellence and community engagement. With a historic 86-acre campus, it offers a dynamic and nurturing environment for its 1,568 undergraduate and graduate students. Virginia Union University is recognized in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report, holding a prestigious position as #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

VUU provides a robust array of academic programs, including 35 Bachelor's, 11 Master's, and one Doctoral degree. Virginia Union University remains steadfast in its commitment to offering accessible, high-quality education, instilling a sense of assurance and confidence in its students. It fosters a vibrant intellectual community dedicated to the holistic development of future leaders.

 Five fundamental principles (core values) guide Virginia Union University. Each principle is essential to our ability to provide a Best-In-Class educational experience for students, faculty, and staff. These principles help our community understand the right path to fulfilling our institution's mission. The principles are Innovation, Spiritual Formation, Integrity, Diversity & Inclusion, and Excellence.

The Deputy Legal Officer – Governance supports the Office of General Counsel in providing legal advice and oversight related to university governance, policy development, compliance, and institutional integrity. This role focuses on ensuring that university governance structures operate in alignment with legal, regulatory, and institutional requirements, and supports senior leadership, governing boards, and university committees on matters of governance and corporate compliance.

Responsibilities

• Advise on matters related to university governance, including board bylaws, charters, committee structures, delegations of authority, and institutional policies.
• Serve as a liaison to the Board of Trustees and its committees, supporting the preparation of agendas, minutes, resolutions, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and best practices.
• Draft, review, and revise governance-related documents including policies, procedures, contracts, and memoranda of understanding.
• Ensure adherence to federal, state, and accrediting body requirements related to institutional governance.
• Provide legal guidance on conflicts of interest, ethics, fiduciary responsibilities, and other governance-related matters.
• Monitor changes in higher education law and recommend updates to governance practices accordingly.
• Support institutional compliance efforts by contributing to policy development and risk mitigation strategies.
• Coordinate and conduct training for university leaders, trustees, and governance staff on governance and compliance topics.
• Collaborate with internal departments such as Compliance, Human Resources, and Academic Affairs on governance-related issues.
• Support investigations, audits, and inquiries related to governance or policy adherence.

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and active membership in good standing with a state bar (required).
• Minimum of 5 years of legal experience, with at least 3 years in higher education, government, corporate governance, or nonprofit sector strongly preferred.
• Must be able to lift 10 pounds.

Application Process

Candidates are required to submit their resume, four professional references and a cover letter. The application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background investigation and reference check will be required prior to employment. For any questions or concerns, please contact Askhr@vuu.edu.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Virginia Union University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other protected class.

For more information about Virginia Union University, visit VUU About Page.