Overview
A growing organization is seeking a Corporate Development Counsel to support its Corporate Headquarters in Columbia, MO. This role involves managing the legal aspects of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and strategic investment activities from initial structuring through due diligence, negotiation, closing, and integration. The position requires close collaboration with senior leadership, business teams, and stakeholders across the company.
Responsibilities
- Structure, draft, and negotiate key transaction documents including term sheets, letters of intent, merger agreements, asset and stock purchase agreements, and investment/shareholder agreements.
- Lead and manage the end-to-end legal due diligence process, coordinating internal specialists (e.g., intellectual property, privacy, employment, tax), managing virtual data rooms, identifying and quantifying risks, and summarizing findings for business stakeholders.
- Serve as the primary legal advisor to the Corporate Development team and other business leaders, providing strategic and tactical advice on deal structures, risk management, and negotiation strategy.
- Collaborate with Finance, Tax, HR, Operations, and Product teams to ensure all functional aspects of transactions align with business objectives.
- Manage and oversee outside counsel on M&A and investment transactions to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with organizational goals.
- Support post-closing integration efforts to facilitate smooth transitions and realization of deal value.
- Develop and refine M&A playbooks, including templates, checklists, and internal processes to improve efficiency and consistency.
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school with active membership in at least one state bar.
- Minimum of 4 years of relevant legal experience with significant focus on M&A, including direct experience drafting and negotiating complex transaction agreements.
- Strong expertise in all facets of the M&A lifecycle and a solid understanding of corporate, contract, and securities law.
- Proven ability to understand business objectives and apply legal principles pragmatically and with a risk-based approach.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of explaining complex legal issues clearly to non-legal stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
- Proactive, solution-oriented mindset with strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment and adapt to change.
- Experience managing outside counsel.
- Familiarity with contract lifecycle management tools or legal technology is a plus.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience at a law firm specializing in M&A/Corporate practice is strongly preferred.
- In-house legal experience at a technology or high-growth company is a significant advantage.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit for extended periods and work on a computer.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive compensation package.
- Full medical, dental, and vision coverage for full-time employees.
- Generous paid time off and paid holidays.
- 401(k) plan with company match.
- Gym membership stipend and wellness programs.
- Company events and social activities.
- 16 hours of paid volunteer time annually.
- Opportunities for career advancement, leadership training, and professional development.
Location
Columbia, Missouri
Additional Information
Employment is contingent on passing a background check. Some roles may require passing a drug test depending on job responsibilities.
The organization is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.