Principal Legal Counsel (Policy & Advocacy)

TL;DR

Principal Legal Counsel (Policy & Advocacy): Providing expert legal guidance to the Global Policy & Advocacy division to empower teams working with government partners and manage innovative grant programs with an accent on tax-exempt organization laws, political advocacy, and compliance. Focus on shaping global compliance strategies, overseeing complex legal structuring of transactions, and mitigating reputational risks in high-stakes environments.

Location: Seattle, WA or Washington, DC. Must have unrestricted work authorization in the US.

Salary: $267,000 - $455,200 USD

Company

The largest nonprofit fighting poverty, disease, and inequity around the world.

What you will do

• Serve as the legal relationship manager for program teams engaged in grantmaking, government engagement, and public campaigns.
• Advise on high-impact issues including global government engagement, lobbying, electioneering, and reputational risk.
• Oversee the legal structuring and negotiation of advocacy grants, media agreements, and intellectual property matters.
• Lead education and training for foundation leadership on key legal and compliance matters.
• Ensure adherence to domestic and foreign regulatory requirements in countries where the foundation is active.
• Conduct moderate international travel to foundation offices and presence locations.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree and current bar membership in good standing.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in the practice of law.
• Deep expertise in U.S. tax-exempt organizations, political advocacy, communications law, and nonprofit governance.
• Unrestricted work authorization in the US; no immigration sponsorship provided.
• Proven ability to operate at a senior level and lead responses to regulatory or reputational crises.
• Strong drafting and negotiation skills with the ability to translate complex legal concepts for non-legal audiences.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with no premiums.
• Generous paid time off and paid family leave.
• Foundation-paid retirement contributions.
• Commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace reflecting global populations.
• Regional holidays and opportunities to engage in various employee communities.