Deputy Chief Legal Officer for Legal Affairs

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.

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.

Virginia Union University’s Office of Legal Affairs is seeking a highly qualified and organized Deputy Chief Legal Officer to provide legal guidance and representation to the Board of Trustees. This position involves ensuring compliance with university bylaws, corporate law, and applicable regulations, while supporting the legal and administrative needs of the Board. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of corporate governance, strong communication skills, and the ability to efficiently manage Board activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary legal liaison for the Board of Trustees.
• Advise the Board on corporate governance, compliance with university bylaws, and legal matters affecting university policies.
• Ensure all Board activities are compliant with federal, state, and local laws, as well as university bylaws and regulations.
• Provide legal guidance on issues before the Board, including contracts, policies, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
• Attend all Board meetings, offering legal counsel and maintaining thorough records of discussions and decisions.
• Draft, review, and maintain meeting minutes, resolutions, and action items, ensuring accuracy and legal compliance.
• Maintain a thorough archive of Board materials, including minutes, resolutions, correspondence, and governance documents, ensuring compliance with document retention policies.
• Manage legal documentation related to Board actions, decisions, and strategic initiatives, ensuring they align with legal and governance best practices.
• Draft and review contracts, agreements, and other legal documents requiring Board approval.
• Conduct legal research and analysis to support Board decision-making, particularly in governance and compliance areas.
• Work closely with the Chief Legal Officer and the legal team to ensure alignment with university-wide legal strategies and policies.
• Collaborate with university administrators on legal compliance, risk management, and institutional priorities.
• Provide legal counsel on policy development, governance reforms, and risk mitigation.
• Assist the Board and Office of Legal Affairs in governance reforms and other legal initiatives.
• Monitor legislative and legal trends affecting university governance and keep the Board informed of relevant developments.

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Must be licensed to practice law; preference for candidates licensed to practice in Virginia.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in legal practice, with a focus on corporate law, higher education law, or nonprofit governance.
• Primarily office-based with regular participation in Board meetings.
• Occasional travel as required for legal or university matters included extended hours during Board meetings or special projects.

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.