General Counsel

Strategic Counsel and Leadership Advisory

Litigation and Dispute Resolution

Contracts and Transactions

Compliance, Policy, and Regulatory Affairs

Governance and Operations

Required Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Admission to and good standing with the New York State Bar.
• Seven to ten years of progressively responsible experience in legal practice, with demonstrated capacity to manage a diverse portfolio of legal matters.
• Outstanding academic credentials and a record of professional distinction.
• Superior oral and written communication skills, including the ability to present complex legal concepts clearly to diverse non-legal audiences.
• Strong analytical reasoning, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving abilities.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively across organizational boundaries and with individuals at all levels, from Board members to students.
• Demonstrated experience independently managing complex legal issues with sound judgment, discretion, and practical wisdom.
• A genuine commitment to promoting and advancing the Vincentian Mission of Niagara University.
• A record of exemplary personal and professional integrity and the highest ethical standards.
• Ability to provide practical, timely legal guidance in a fast-paced institutional environment.
• Valid New York State driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience in higher education law, whether as in-house counsel at a college or university or through a practice substantially focused on higher education clients.
• Experience with mediation, arbitration, or alternative dispute resolution methods.
• Background in litigation, labor and employment law, and/or complex transactional matters within higher education or other non-profit institutional settings.
• Familiarity with non-profit governance, including board relations, fiduciary duties, and tax-exempt regulatory frameworks.
• Experience with real estate transactions, construction contracts, or facilities-related legal matters.
• Knowledge of international education law or cross-border legal issues, particularly in U.S.–Canada operations.
• Experience advising on intellectual property, technology transfer, or data privacy matters in an academic setting.

Compensation and Benefits

• Niagara University offers a competitive total compensation package designed to attract and retain outstanding professionals. The university is committed to supporting the well-being, professional growth, and financial security of its employees.
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience, qualifications, and the scope of the position.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• University-sponsored retirement plan with institutional contribution.
• Tuition remission for employees and eligible dependents.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and university holidays.
• Professional development support, including continuing legal education opportunities.
• Life insurance and short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Employee assistance program.
• Access to university campus facilities, cultural events, and athletic programs.

How to Apply

• Niagara University invites applications from qualified professionals who are excited by the opportunity to serve a mission-driven institution at a pivotal moment in its growth. Interested candidates should submit the following materials electronically through the Niagara University Human Resources online application portal:
• Cover Letter - addressing your interest in the position, relevant qualifications, and alignment with the university's Vincentian mission.
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae - reflecting your education, professional experience, and accomplishments.
• Professional References - names and contact information for three (3) professional references.

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

• The anticipated start date is negotiable. Early application is strongly encouraged.
• Questions regarding this position may be directed to the Niagara University Office of Human Resources.

Equal Employment Opportunity