Overview
This direct-hire opportunity supports a boutique law practice advising top-tier employers and executives on complex executive compensation packages. The role focuses on building deep expertise in Section 409A compliance and non-qualified deferred compensation (NQDC), with exposure to sophisticated, high-impact matters.
Responsibilities
- Draft, review, and revise executive compensation and NQDC plan documents, agreements, and related materials
- Analyze existing compensation arrangements for Section 409A and related tax compliance issues, and recommend corrective actions when needed
- Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda on executive compensation, NQDC, and associated tax topics
- Support transactional teams by reviewing and advising on executive compensation and benefits aspects of M&A and other corporate transactions
- Assist in designing and structuring new executive compensation programs aligned with client objectives and regulatory requirements
- Liaise with clients to gather information, clarify issues, and present clear, practical guidance on compensation-related tax matters
- Monitor regulatory developments affecting executive compensation and contribute to internal knowledge resources and client alerts
Requirements
- Experience working with executive compensation and/or NQDC arrangements in a law firm, accounting firm, or in-house setting
- Practical knowledge of Section 409A rules and their application to various compensation structures
- Strong tax background with the ability to interpret and apply complex regulations and guidance
- Proven ability to draft and review sophisticated legal or tax documents with high attention to detail
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and written communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Exposure to other executive compensation tax regimes (e.g., Sections 280G, 162(m), 457)
- Experience advising on compensation issues in corporate transactions or restructurings
- Familiarity with equity-based compensation, long-term incentive plans, and related governance issues
- Prior experience interacting directly with corporate clients and senior executives
Qualifications
- JD and admission to at least one US state bar (or eligibility for admission)
- LLM in Taxation preferred but not required
- 4+ years of relevant tax, executive compensation, or benefits experience in a professional services or in-house environment