Director, Legal

Classification:

Job Description:

Are you looking for a new challenge? Passionate about innovation? Want to work for a global company that values integrity, teamwork, and loyalty? 

At LATICRETE International, we aim to be the leading construction brand trusted globally for high-performance tile and stone installation systems and building finishing solutions. We’ve been in business for over 65 years, family-owned for three generations, and can be found in over 100 countries. The Hartford Business Journal even named us one of Connecticut’s top family-owned companies in 2017! 

We don't just make innovative, industry-leading products. Our purpose is to improve the built world and the lives of those who build it. We strive to connect with, engage with and improve the lives of our employees, our customers, our partners, and the global communities in which we operate. 

We are seeking passionate and ambitious employees who want to make a difference not just within our organization, but within their communities, our industry, and the world. If that sounds like you, then what are you waiting for? Join the family and expand your horizons!

Just some of our benefits:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• 401k
• Tuition reimbursement
• 13 paid holidays in addition to paid vacation and sick time
• Flexible spending
• Life Insurance, AD&D and Supplemental Insurance

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director, Legal will serve as the primary in-house legal advisor for Laticrete International and its affiliates, reporting directly to the CFO and partnering with the Enterprise Risk and Audit Director. This position will oversee the company’s legal affairs, manage external counsel, and provide strategic legal guidance on corporate, regulatory, and operational matters. Additionally, this position will work closely with senior leadership to support the company's growth while managing risk and ensuring legal compliance. The Director, Legal will demonstrate leadership and entrepreneurial spirit and should fit with the culture of a family-owned business with very professional governance and should contribute effectively to the continued fast globalization of the company. This position must interact and collaborate with US and International teams, recognizing the specificities of the culture and legal systems of the many countries where LATICRETE is operating. The Director, Legal must employ a pragmatic and entrepreneurial approach, through problem solving, avoiding excessive procedures and driving with common sense the steps needed for the constant improvement of the governance of the organization.

This position is a hybrid role based in Bethany, CT with a minimum of 3 days per week in the office.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned, as necessary. 

Legal Strategy & Advice:

• Serve as the principal legal advisor to senior management and the Board of Directors on all legal matters affecting the business.

• Develop and implement the company’s legal strategy to support business objectives and minimize legal risks.

• Provide guidance on corporate governance, compliance, and risk management.

Corporate & Business Law:

• Oversee corporate governance, including board meetings, shareholder communications

• Manage legal matters associated with mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, partnerships, and other strategic business transactions.

• Advise on corporate structure and reorganizations as needed.

Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management:

• In collaboration with the Enterprise risk and Audit director, ensure the company’s adherence to relevant local, state, and federal laws, as well as industry regulations.

• Monitor changes in laws and regulations that could impact on the company and ensure compliance across all business units.

• Identify and mitigate potential legal risks affecting the business.

Litigation Management:

• Manage and oversee all litigation and dispute resolution, including coordination with external counsel.

• Develop strategies to resolve disputes effectively and efficiently, protecting the company's interests.

Contract Negotiation & Review:

• Draft and review contracts and licenses with customers, suppliers, and business partners.

Employment & Labor Law:

• Advise HR and management on employment law matters, including employee relations, compensation, and benefits.

• Ensure compliance with labor laws, regulations, and best practices.

Intellectual Property & Technology:

• Oversee the protection and enforcement of the company’s intellectual property, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights.

• Advise on technology contracts, data privacy, and cybersecurity issues.

REQUIRED SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience:

• Juris Doctorate (JD) from an accredited law school.   

• Bar membership in good standing.  

• 8+ years of corporate legal experience, preferable with at least two years at a law firm and the majority as in-house experience.  

Specialized Skills and Experience:

• Strong knowledge of corporate law, regulatory compliance.

• Experience managing mergers and acquisitions highly preferred.  

• Experience drafting and reviewing major and critical contracts including customer agreements, vendor contracts, partnership agreements, licensing agreements and employment contracts.  

• Proven ability to provide practical, business-focused legal advice to senior and mid-level management. 

• Experience working with external legal counsel.

• Experience in global manufacturing company selling through distribution is preferred. Experience in chemical industry and/or building products is a plus. International experience is also a plus, as well as previous experiences in acquiring and divesting companies

• Experienced in defining and defending intellectual property.  

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Ability to translate complex legal concepts into actionable advice for the business. 

Travel Requirement: 

15-20% - including multi-day trips and International Travel

Physical Requirements:

• Standing: Must be able to stand at least 20%  of the day.

• Sitting: Must be able to sit at least 80% of the day.