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Principal Legal Counsel, Policy & Advocacy - Gates Foundation 2024

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is seeking a Principal Legal Counsel to support its dynamic Global Policy & Advocacy division. This role will provide expert legal guidance on innovative grant programs. The foundation offers a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for professional grow

location: Seattle, WA
host: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
duration: Full time
apply-url: https://gatesfoundation.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/Gates/job/Seattle-WA/Principal-Legal-Counsel--Policy---Advocacy_B021523-1

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the largest nonprofit fighting poverty and disease, is looking for a Principal Legal Counsel to join its Legal division. This role will primarily support the Global Policy & Advocacy division, with opportunities to collaborate across various teams. The foundation has a global presence, with employees from diverse backgrounds, and offers a range of benefits, including comprehensive medical coverage and generous paid time off.

Overview

The Principal Legal Counsel will be part of the Legal division, which provides comprehensive legal services to support the foundation's mission and programmatic strategies.

  • Key responsibilities include developing creative solutions, resolving issues using the appropriate legal framework, and advising on high-impact issues such as global government engagement and reputational risk.
  • The role will also involve collaborating with the Legal Leadership Team and broader legal team to ensure effective coverage and work allocation regarding legal issues related to the foundation.
  • The foundation is committed to creating an environment for employees to thrive both personally and professionally, with opportunities for professional growth and development.
  • The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the intersection between law, policy, and equity, and be committed to the foundation's mission and values.

Eligibility

The ideal candidate will have a Juris Doctor degree and current bar membership in good standing, with a minimum of 10 years of experience in the practice of law.

  • Deep expertise in legal frameworks governing U.S. tax-exempt organizations, political advocacy, communications law, and nonprofit governance is required.
  • Proven ability to operate at a senior level with strong strategic thinking, business acumen, and judgment in ambiguous or high-risk environments is also necessary.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with no premiums.
  • Generous paid time off and paid family leave.
  • Foundation-paid retirement contribution and regional holidays.
  • Opportunities to engage in several employee communities and professional growth and development.

How to Apply

To apply for this role, please submit your application through the foundation's website.

  • A cover letter and resume are required as part of the application process.
  • Applicants must also be willing to engage in a moderate amount of travel, primarily internationally.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Principal Legal Counsel role is based in Seattle, WA.

What type of experience is required for this role?

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 10 years of experience in the practice of law, with deep expertise in legal frameworks governing U.S. tax-exempt organizations, political advocacy, communications law, and nonprofit governance.

The Principal Legal Counsel will be responsible for developing creative solutions, resolving issues using the appropriate legal framework, and advising on high-impact issues such as global government engagement and reputational risk.

What benefits does the foundation offer to its employees?

The foundation offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage with no premiums, generous paid time off, and foundation-paid retirement contribution.

Is travel required for this role?

Yes, the Principal Legal Counsel will be required to engage in a moderate amount of travel, primarily internationally.

What is the foundation's commitment to diversity and inclusion?

The foundation is committed to creating an environment for employees to thrive both personally and professionally, with opportunities for professional growth and development, and a deep understanding of the intersection between law, policy, and equity.