Head Global Labor & Employment Counsel

Overview

This role serves as the Head Global Labor & Employment Counsel, acting as the primary legal advisor to the Chief People Officer (CPO) and the global Human Resources team. The position requires specialized expertise in global labor and employment law to provide strategic, business-savvy counsel. The role involves managing complex legal issues, balancing business needs with risk mitigation, and leading initiatives to modernize HR policies and practices.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a strategic partner to the CPO and HR leadership, designing and implementing long-term global labor and employment initiatives.
• Provide direct supervision and mentorship to the Senior Counsel, Global Employment, fostering a high-performing legal team.
• Manage day-to-day legal matters promptly and maintain a responsive, client-focused approach.
• Evaluate, improve, and update global and country-specific employment policies and practices to ensure compliance and workplace effectiveness.
• Proactively manage and reduce outside counsel expenses through internal expertise and efficient matter management.
• Provide legal guidance throughout the employee life cycle, including talent acquisition, compensation, benefits, performance management, and restructurings.
• Manage global employment disputes, litigation, and agency matters (e.g., EEOC, OFCCP) as directed, and support internal investigations.
• Advise on global labor relations, including labor organizations and works councils.
• Conduct due diligence and provide employment law counsel for global mergers and acquisitions.

Requirements

• Minimum of 10–15 years of recognized expertise in labor and employment law.
• Experience leading the labor/employment function for a global public company is preferred.
• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and licensed to practice law in the U.S.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required; advanced certifications strongly preferred.
• Specialized knowledge of global labor and employment laws with the ability to interpret business challenges and recommend best practices.
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to explain complex concepts and influence stakeholders.
• Proven leadership skills with a track record of solving complex problems using analytical thinking and sound judgment.
• Ability to travel occasionally as required.
• Demonstrated impact on achieving client and operational objectives.

Compensation & Benefits

• The base salary range is an estimate and may be adjusted based on the final work location.
• Individual pay is determined by experience, training, geography, certifications, and business needs.
• Eligibility for bonuses, equity, or other incentives may apply.
• Comprehensive health and wellness plans.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Generous paid time off policy.
• Depending on the role, additional benefits may include a company-provided vehicle and/or discretionary incentive/bonus eligibility.

Location

• The position requires licensure to practice law in the U.S.
• Occasional travel as required by business needs.

The organization is an equal opportunity employer and makes hiring decisions without regard to disability status, protected veteran status, or membership in any other protected class.