General Counsel - Vertically Integrated Real Estate Firm
Our client, a prominent vertically integrated real estate company based in Los Angeles, is an industry leader in the development, acquisition, management, and operation of residential, commercial, and mixed-use properties. With a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community, the company is transforming urban landscapes and driving the future of real estate in Southern California.
Responsibilties:
- Act as the primary legal advisor to the CEO, executive team, and Board of Directors on all legal matters related to real estate, corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and litigation.
- Provide strategic legal guidance to support business operations across all areas, including acquisitions, development, leasing, property management, construction, and financing.
- Identify and mitigate legal risks proactively while supporting the company's growth and business goals.
- Lead negotiations, structuring, and documentation of real estate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, joint ventures, and development projects.
- Oversee legal due diligence and collaborate with external counsel on complex real estate transactions.
- Ensure compliance with zoning, land use, environmental, and other regulatory requirements related to real estate projects.
- Manage and oversee litigation, including landlord-tenant disputes, construction disputes, contract enforcement, and other legal matters.
- Develop and implement strategies for dispute resolution, such as negotiation, mediation, and settlement, while managing litigation expenses effectively.
- Advise on corporate governance matters and ensure compliance with applicable laws and best practices.
- Oversee the company's regulatory compliance programs to ensure adherence to real estate, environmental, and employment laws.
- Stay updated on legal and regulatory changes in the real estate industry, advising leadership on their potential impact.
- Provide counsel on risk management strategies and ensure policies are in place to protect the company from legal exposure.
- Draft and review internal policies, contracts, and legal documents, ensuring alignment with the company's business objectives.
- Lead and manage an in-house legal team, offering mentorship, guidance, and professional development.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (including development, finance, operations, and property management) to address legal challenges and support day-to-day operations.
- Work with external counsel as needed to manage legal matters effectively and efficiently.
Qualifications:
- J.D. from an accredited law school; active membership in the California State Bar.
- At least 10 years of legal experience, with a strong focus on real estate law, preferably within a vertically integrated real estate company or real estate development firm.
- Proven experience in real estate transactions (acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, joint ventures), land use/zoning, construction law, and property management.
- Strong leadership skills with experience managing and developing a legal team.
- Exceptional negotiation, drafting, and communication skills, with the ability to advise and influence senior management.
- Strong understanding of how to align legal strategies with broader business goals and priorities.
- Ability to think strategically and proactively identify legal risks before they impact the business.
- The position is based in Los Angeles, CA, with in-office presence as needed.
