Office of the General Counsel
Open Society Institute–New York
Application Deadline: November 18, 2011
The Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and tolerant democracies whose governments are accountable to their citizens. To achieve this mission, the Foundations seek to shape public policies that assure greater fairness in political, legal, and economic systems and safeguard fundamental rights. On a local level, the Open Society Foundations implement a range of initiatives to advance justice, education, public health, and independent media. At the same time, we build alliances across borders and continents on issues such as corruption and freedom of information. The Foundations place a high priority on protecting and improving the lives of people in marginalized communities.
Investor and philanthropist George Soros established the Open Society Foundations, starting in 1984, to help countries make the transition from communism. Our activities have grown to encompass the United States and more than 70 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America. Each foundation relies on the expertise of boards composed of eminent citizens who determine individual agendas based on local priorities.
Purpose of Position
Provide support, manage department office related duties. Work is carried out independently/under general supervision.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Review and process service agreements, consultancy agreements, license agreements, amendments to existing agreements and other documents;
- Analyze proposed contracts, highlight areas of risk and recommend revisions to proposals or terms so that these are favorable to the Open Society Foundations and protect it from unacceptable risk;
- Work with Senior Contract Administrator, Legal Assistants and Legal Clerk to produce clear and concise contracts by:
- Ensure the creation (and preservation) of contractual agreements by properly documenting business arrangements;
- Coordinate with Finance to resolve payment or immigration-related problems that arise;
- Identify the need for new and revised templates and procedures that reflect the needs of programs;
- Have discussions with consultants, if/when appropriate;
- Liaise with lawyers regarding compliance issues and ensure implementation of contract policies and procedures;
- Serve as point of contact for general inquiries on: (i) administrative and programmatic matters from Open Society Foundations staff; (ii) questions regarding the consultancy review process, intellectual property matters, and special payment arrangements; and (iii) general inquiries from Open Society Foundations Finance and Accounting staff concerning consultancy agreements, payments to individuals, expense reimbursements, etc.;
- Supervise Legal Assistants and Legal Clerk;
- Manage department budget;
- Process outside counsel invoices;
- Maintain office attendance calendar and office petty cash;
- Perform other duties as assigned.
The Open Society Foundations may add, change, or remove essential and other duties at any time.
Education/Experience
- Bachelor’s degree (BA) from a four-year college or university and five to eight years relevant experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience working in employment or corporate law preferred;
- Interest/experience working in an NGO/foundation.
Skills Required
- Effectively manage to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, troubleshoot and follow projects through to completion, with strict deadlines and without loss of attention to detail, budget and reporting;
- Excellent written, verbal, organizational, analystical and interpersonal skills;
- Excellent computer skills, proficient in Micosoft Office and experience with internet research and database management;
- Exercise good listening and communication skills with sensitivity to cultural communication differences;
- Effectively work as a team member and independently, with a high-level of self-motivation and ability to set and meet goals;
- Show discretion and ability to handle confidential issues;
- Knowledge of key organizations and networks active in the field;
- Pleasant, diplomatic manner and disposition in interacting with colleagues and the general public.
Program Specific Requirements
- Experience supervising others is required;
- Second language a plus.
Work Environment and Physical Demands
Essential functions are typically performed in an office setting with a low level of noise. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Start Date
November 21, 2011
Compensation
Commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits package.
To Apply
Please email resume and cover letter with salary requirements before November 18, 2011, to: humanresources@sorosny.org. Include job code in subject line: SLA-OGC
OR
Open Society Foundations
Human Resources – Code SLA-OGC
400 West 59th Street
New York, New York 10019
FAX: 646.557.2672
No phone calls, please. The Open Society Foundations are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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