General Counsel

General CounselState Democracy Defenders Action, a 501(c)(4) organizationFull time, Exempt, Remote (preference for DC)Organizational OverviewState Democracy Defenders Action (SDDA) is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization dedicated to defeating election sabotage and denial, fighting autocracy, and building a resilient democracy. SDDA also provides general administration for a group of related independent entities including State Democracy Defenders Fund (c3),Democracy Defenders PAC, and Democracy Defenders Projects - the home for the new media entity, The Contrarian. We were founded to counter the authoritarian threat to our democracy. State Democracy Defenders Action was founded in 2023 by Ambassador Norm Eisen (ret.), alongside other leading figures in democracy defense, elections, and law. SDDA launched the Contrarian which is being led by Eisen and new Editor-in Chief, Jen Rubin.Role SummaryThe General Counsel ("GC") serves as legal guardian, providing legal advice to our senior leadership. The GC will be expected to provide legal and strategic advice across a myriad of complex issues that touch all of the group's legal entities. This position would report to the Executive Director and also work with other senior members of the team. The GC will be expected to have experience across a wide range of legal topics and regimes, including corporate and nonprofit law, federal tax law, intellectual property and defamation, federal election law, litigation, privilege, contracts, and employment law. ResponsibilitiesThe General Counsel will be responsible for tasks including, but not limited to:Oversee legal matters across all of the legal entities the entirety of the organizationReview, develop and set internal governance policies and ensure that the organization closely follows its policiesMaintain knowledge of the company's legal documents and operationsCraft and review legal strategies to limit liability proactively and in response to any potential litigation, audit or inquirySupport rapid response legal efforts to support the pro-democracy ecosystemSupport communications, fundraising, and other team members by reviewing and contributing to fundraising proposalsWork closely with outside counsel to ensure compliance with employment laws in various jurisdictions and all relevant IRS and FEC laws and regulationsEnsure that all working relationships-with contractors, outside counsel, and outside experts-are bound by appropriate privilege structuresReview grant proposals, agreements and stewardship reportsReview or draft contracts with vendors, clients or other stakeholders as neededMaintain internal compliance procedures, including training for staff as neededManage board matters and serve as board secretary as neededOther tasks as neededDesired Qualifications and SkillsJuris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school10-15+ years of experience, including as a senior legal advisor to nonprofitsProven ability to manage multiple pressing legal matters and prioritize effectivelyProven ability to work with outside counsel and experts effectively and efficientlyExceptional attention to detail and organizational skillsDiscretion in handling sensitive informationMembership in good standing with a state bar in the United States, with the ability to waive into the DC bar if necessaryWillingness to travel for retreats and events, and work on-site as neededPrefer prior experience as General Counsel, Chief Legal Officer, or Corporate Counsel at social justice nonprofitsPrefer demonstrated interest in safeguarding American democracyThis is an excellent opportunity for someone dedicated to protecting our democracy, helping to quantify and maximize our impact, and interested in nonprofit management. Proximity to Washington, D.C. is strongly preferred, but work will be primarily remote. Some work is expected during evenings and weekends.State Democracy Defenders Action is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants of all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.The salary range for this position is $180,000 - $220,000, plus benefits, including a generous PTO policy. This is a non-exempt, overtime eligible position.To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to applications@with your last name followed by General Counsel in the subject line.

Created: 2025-03-08