The University seeks an Assistant or Associate General Counsel to provide legal advice to the University, primarily supporting and advising the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics (Athletics). The Assistant or Associate General Counsel will play a pivotal role in drafting, managing, and negotiating contracts for Athletics, including but not limited to contracts related to sponsorships; commercial partnerships; name, image, and likeness (NIL) activities; media rights; and employee contracts. This position is a dual report to the Office of General Counsel and Athletics, and the Assistant of Associate General Counsel will work closely with Athletics Leadership, the Athletics Business Office, Office of Compliance Services, department approved consultants.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee the development, negotiation, and execution of all contracts related to Athletics.
• Ensure all contractual agreements align with Athletics strategic goals and comply with legal and regulatory requirements, in light of recent legal decisions and revenue-sharing models with student-athletes.
• Evaluate potential risks associated with contracts and propose mitigating strategies, ensuring compliance with recent legal rulings.
• Ensure contracts comply with State and Federal laws, as well as NCAA regulations.
• Work collaboratively with coaches, administrators, student-athletes, and external parties to understand their needs and provide effective contract solutions to secure favorable terms, mitigate risks, and alignment with budgetary constraints.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of all contract negotiations and final agreements.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures related to contract management within Athletics, considering recent legal precedents.
• Provide training and guidance to internal Athletics staff on contract-related matters, best practices, and the implications of recent legal decisions.
• Work with the Office of General Counsel to address and resolve any contract-related disputes in a timely and effective manner.
• Other duties as assigned.

 

Required Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate (JD) granted by an ABA accredited law school.
• Admission to or eligibility for admission to the State Bar of Michigan within 6 months of position start date.
• At least five years of experience in drafting and negotiating contracts.

 Desired Qualifications

• Excellent writing ability and advocacy skills.
• Experience working and negotiation with sports agents or advisors
• Understanding collegiate and/or professional sports landscape.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of NCAA regulations and compliance issues, particularly related to revenue sharing with student-athletes.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

 

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