Legal Counsel

The University of Manitoba is a driving force of innovation, discovery and advancement. Our momentum is propelled by our campus community – UM faculty, staff and students whose determination and curiosity shape our world for the better. Our teaching, learning and work environment is uniquely strengthened and enriched by Indigenous perspectives. With two main campuses in Winnipeg, satellite campuses throughout Manitoba, and world-wide research, UM’s impact is global.

Discover outstanding employee benefits, experience world-class facilities and join a dynamic community that values reconciliation, sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. We are one of Manitoba’s Top Employers and one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers. At the University of Manitoba, what inspires you can change everything.

The opportunity:

The Office of Legal Counsel at the University of Manitoba is expanding and are looking to add two new lawyers to their team.

Reporting to General Counsel, the Legal Counsel will provide comprehensive legal services which span the full spectrum of areas of legal practice. However, the Legal Counsel will have some specialization in matters related to administrative law, research matters, labour and employment law, contract development, policy development, dispute resolution and donor relations.

Legal Office staff are currently participating in a hybrid work model that supports a blend of in-office and remote work arrangements.

The qualifications and experience we’re looking for:

• Bachelor of Laws degree from a reputable Canadian university (or equivalent) required.
• A practicing member of, or eligible to be, a practicing member of the Law Society of Manitoba. (Any candidate who is not, at the time of application, currently a member shall be made an offer conditional upon obtaining membership within one year of the start date).
• A minimum of five years' experience in the practice of law required.
• Strong background and experience in the following areas of law: Policy development, dispute resolution, contract law, administrative law, litigation, human rights and conflict management, corporate and commercial transactions, collective bargaining, risk management preferred.
• Experience working with a University or other educational institutions preferred.
• Significant exposure to areas of law frequently encountered at Universities preferred.
• An acceptable equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Complex problem solving and outstanding legal research skills are required.
• Complex drafting skills and strong computer skills are required.
• Effective verbal presentation skills and persuasive writing skills are required.
• Broad knowledge of legislation and common law is required.
• Efficient time-management skills and strong organizational skills are required.
• Must have skills allowing for effective prioritizing of work.
• Diplomatic advocacy and negotiation skills required.
• Ability to draft, review, and/or negotiate a wide variety of agreements is required.
• Ability to provide complete, thoroughly researched, and accurate formal and informal legal opinions required.
• Ability to effectively receive instruction and keep clients updated required.
• Ability to work with and consult collaboratively and respectfully with key stakeholders on legal documents and policy development required.
• Ability to work effectively, collaboratively, and respectfully with administrative assistants required.
• Ability to draft legal pleadings and submissions for courts and administrative tribunals required.
• Ability to represent the University before courts and administrative tribunals required.
• Ability to effectively instruct external legal counsel and other advisors, in a manner which protects the University's interests, while minimizing cost required.
• Ability to comprehend highly technical subjects relating to matters which form the basis of agreements and disputes required.
• Ability to lead teams and projects required.
• Ability to effectively co-supervise staff required.
• Ability to work independently, with little direction or supervision required.
• Satisfactory work record, including satisfactory attendance and punctuality, is required.

Why the University of Manitoba?

Along with being one of Manitoba’s top employers, we are proud to provide a collaborative and enriching work environment. In addition to a strong compensation package with a competitive salary, the University provides an exceptional workplace that includes:

• Comprehensive group benefits and pension plan.
• Competitive vacation time.
• Employee and Family Assistance Program.
• A full spectrum of professional development opportunities.

Apply today through the University of Manitoba’s recruitment site, UM Careers: https://viprecprod.ad.umanitoba.ca/DEFAULT.ASPX?REQ_ID=33100

Closing Date: July 12, 2024

Applications will only be accepted if you apply on UM Careers.

The University of Manitoba is committed to the principles of equity, diversity & inclusion and to promoting opportunities in hiring, promotion and tenure (where applicable) for systemically marginalized groups who have been excluded from full participation at the University and the larger community including Indigenous Peoples, women, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, questioning, intersex, asexual and other diverse sexual identities).

If you require accommodation supports during the recruitment process, please contact 204-474-7195. Please note this contact information is for accommodation reasons only.

Application materials, including letters of reference, will be handled in accordance with the protection of privacy provisions of The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (Manitoba). Please note that curriculum vitae will be provided to participating members of the search process.