Chief Counsel

American Oversight Job Opportunity: Chief Counsel

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Overview

American Oversight is seeking a dynamic and strategic Chief Counsel to lead our talented team of public records litigators. We are a nonpartisan, nonprofit watchdog organization dedicated to advancing truth, accountability, and democracy by enforcing the public’s right to government records.

About Us

With extensive experience in open records laws, American Oversight acts where abuse of authority and government power overlap. From the federal Freedom of Information Act to state transparency laws, we use carefully crafted records requests to extract information from the government. Our legal expertise allows us to take the government to court when necessary, ensuring the public’s right to hold leaders accountable.

Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

• Drive American Oversight’s daily legal work, maximizing impact in every priority mission area.
• Identify new opportunities for high-impact litigation, adapting to circumstances and managing priorities.
• Track team workflow, allocate resources, and ensure quality and timeliness expectations are met.
• Collaborate with senior management to set and adjust strategic priorities.
• Build and maintain a supportive workplace environment, mentoring and developing the legal team.
• Manage relationships with local counsel and contribute to the organization’s legal work.
• Engage in rapid response to current events and developments related to public records requests and litigation.

Qualifications

• JD and membership in good standing of at least one state bar.
• 10+ years’ combined litigation experience in law firms, government, or nonprofit/advocacy organizations.
• Substantial experience leading litigation teams and serving as lead counsel.
• Experience with FOIA, state open records laws, government ethics laws, and oversight/transparency.
• Excellent academic credentials; trial court experience is a plus.
• Strong communication and persuasion skills.
• Ability to manage and drive team performance, fostering growth and development.
• Exceptional judgment, integrity, and commitment to the organizational mission.
• Experience in organization-wide strategic planning is a plus.

Additional Information

American Oversight is an equal-opportunity employer committed to building a diverse team. We encourage applicants with diverse lived experiences to apply. The starting salary range is $202,000 – $230,000, commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits package included.

How to Apply

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply by January 26, 2024. We will continue to review applications on a rolling basis until the position is filled. If you encounter any issues or have questions about your application, please email [email protected].