General Counsel

MS State Port Authority Gulfport, MS Full-time Legal

Posted on May 28, 2024

General Counsel

MISSISSIPPI STATE PORT AUTHOIRTY AT GULFPORT

As a hub for global trade and economic development, the MSPA is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of operational excellence and strategic innovation. We are in search of an experienced General Counsel (GC) to serve as a senior executive leader, offering extensive legal and strategic guidance throughout the organization. This pivotal role supports our commitment to navigating complex legal landscapes while driving forward our strategic objectives and will provide comprehensive legal and strategic guidance across the organization.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Serve as a key member of the senior executive leadership team, actively participating in strategic planning and operational decision-making.
Provide expert legal counsel on a broad range of issues including government law, complex leases, contract law, real estate transactions, and employment law.
Attend and offer legal guidance at all Commission meetings, ensuring decisions align with legal and regulatory frameworks.
Draft, negotiate, and oversee complex legal documents such as leases, contracts, and real estate agreements.
Manage the activities of outside counsel on specialized matters including complex litigation and environmental law issues, ensuring effective representation and compliance.
Develop and implement comprehensive compliance policies, conduct training sessions on legal and risk management, and oversee the legal aspects of public procurement, environmental compliance, and regulatory affairs.
Lead and manage high-impact projects and initiatives on behalf of the CEO and the Commission, encompassing a mix of traditional and innovative legal roles.
Enhance governance structures, prepare for and attend Board meetings, and ensure proper documentation and follow-up on Board directives.
Lead the development and management of ethics and integrity programs, promoting ethical practices and conducting training across the organization.
Collaborate closely with the COO to support financial planning and oversight activities, ensuring that these initiatives align with legal requirements and maintain fiscal integrity.
Partner with outside consultants to devise financial strategies for funding large-scale projects, and work alongside the CEO to implement these strategies effectively.
Oversee compliance with IT security and privacy laws, ensuring that the organization protects sensitive information in accordance with legal standards.

Qualifications and Experience:

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school with admission in good standing to the Mississippi state bar and applicable federal courts.
A minimum of eight (8) years of progressively responsible legal experience. Demonstrated proficiency in government law, employment law, complex leases, real estate transactions, and contract law.
Proven track record of effectively managing legal teams and demonstrated ability to strategically lead management of external counsel on matters such as complex litigation and environmental matters.
Strong capability to lead strategic projects and initiatives, both legal and non-legal, with a proven ability to influence organizational strategy and operational decision-making at the executive level.
Experience in enhancing governance structures, managing corporate board affairs, developing and overseeing comprehensive compliance policies, and ensuring adherence to legal and regulatory frameworks.
Exceptional negotiation and executive communication skills, capable of effectively articulating complex legal concepts to a variety of stakeholders. Commitment to maintaining the highest ethical standards and integrity in professional conduct.
Experience collaborating with financial officers and consultants to devise and implement financial strategies for large-scale projects and competence in overseeing IT security compliance a significant plus.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience no later than 5PM CT on June 16, 2024 by email to employment@shipmspa.com or by mail to: Human Resources Department, MSPA, PO Box 40, Gulfport, MS 39502

Applicants must pass a pre-employment drug screening and background check. For more information, and to view the official position posting, please visit: www.shipmspa.com.