Associate General Counsel for Philanthropy and Taxation

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer: 

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match 
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us! 

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

BASIC FUNCTION:

The purpose of this position is to provide legal representation on behalf of the University in a variety of matters related to development, fundraising, taxation, and philanthropic activities.

SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY:

N/A

NATURE AND SCOPE:

Internal contacts include a variety of University officials, the Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations, Academic Deans and Directors, the Chief Financial Officer, the Chief Administrative Officer, and other key stakeholders. External contacts include alumni, individual and corporate donors, and various contacts from educational organizations.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Offer advice and counsel on a wide range of matters and issues related to the endowment, restricted gifts, taxation, and real estate. Work closely on these matters with the Offices of Development & Alumni Relations, Real Estate and Finance.

Draft gift agreements, structure and negotiate capital, endowed, and planned gifts and gifts of non-marketable assets.

Counsel on pertinent tax issues and reporting obligations, administer testamentary gifts from trusts and estates, and advise on fundraising initiatives and the administration of the University's gift planning programs.

Advise on endowment laws and administration, restricted funds analysis and use, cy pres issues, taxation, investments, related business transactions, fiduciary issues and stewardship matters.

Counsel and assist Office of Human Resources with pension and 403b committee matters.

Review claims and matters that may become legal claims and prepare related correspondence.

Prepare and supervise preparation of legal documents such as pleadings, dispositive motions, responses to charges and information requests, agreements, opinions and advisory memoranda.

Provide general counseling and advice on all issues relating to taxation as it pertains to any aspect of the University.

Independently represent the University in legal quasi-legal proceedings, including the District of Columbia courts and the federal courts having jurisdiction over District of Columbia matters. Also, may represent the University in hearings, meetings, and other forums related to University legal matters.

Draft and negotiate, for subsequent approval by University officers, commitments involving University resources, principally settlements of claims, other agreements and statements of University policy. Reviews documents for other University offices for legal implications and possible legal policy questions.

Respond to University officials' requests for advice in areas of responsibility. Also serve as office resource on current status of law and emerging legal developments in these areas.

Provide legal expertise and otherwise represents the office in meetings with University officials and individuals outside the University.

Stay informed on new and emerging legal issues and regulations on all matters relating to taxation, gifts, donations, or other relevant issues that face a major educational institution.

Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

Ability to counsel on pertinent tax issues and reporting obligations, administer testamentary gifts from trusts and estates, and advise on fundraising initiatives and the administration of the University's gift planning programs.

Ability to review contracts for accuracy, legal sufficiency and compliance with applicable laws.

Ability to plan, direct and conduct independent legal research and related analyses on a variety of legal issues.

Ability to write lucid, persuasive, properly substantiated legal documents and to strengthen such skills in others.

Ability to argue, listen and negotiate effectively.

Superior verbal and written communication skills.

Ability to draft, review, revise and edit documents in Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

Ability to identify possible need for action and to plan, supervise, and execute appropriate assignments with minimal guidance or supervision.

Ability to work productively under pressure, to adhere to and enforce deadlines, and to project need for and effectuate team efforts required to meet deadlines.

Ability to follow guidance and direction and to provide effective guidance and direction.

Ability to establish and maintain effective and harmonious work relations with faculty, staff, students, University officials, and the general public.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Juris Doctor from an accredited law school and five years of post J.D. legal experience, which include at least three years of substantial gift, taxation and/or nonprofit experience. Strong academic record; excellent oral and written communication skills. Membership or eligibility for membership in the District of Columbia Bar.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

$172,800