Legal Operations Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The World Resources Institute (WRI) is an independent research organization established to improve people's lives, protect and restore nature, and stabilize the climate. With a workforce of over 2,000 employees, WRI operates in more than a dozen focus countries and collaborates with partners in over 50 nations. The organization leverages data, expertise, and global reach to influence policy and catalyze change across critical systems such as food, land and water, energy, and urban development. WRI's mission is to guide human society towards sustainable living that safeguards the environment and meets the needs of current and future generations. The organization is committed to values such as integrity, innovation, urgency, independence, and respect, and strives to advance gender and social equity in its operations and employment practices.

Job Overview:
The Legal Operations Manager will play a crucial role in enhancing compliance within the World Resources Institute (WRI) by developing robust management systems for the legal department. Reporting directly to the General Counsel, the individual will integrate equity into their work and contribute to WRI's mission. The position involves managing a variety of legal matters, including tracking and managing the status of assignments from the General Counsel, conducting reviews of contracts and similar documents, and providing related administrative support. The role is hybrid, requiring in-office presence for 8 days a month, and candidates must be residents of Washington DC, Maryland, or Virginia at the start of employment. Existing work authorization is mandatory as WRI does not sponsor visas for this position.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Operations Manager will be responsible for a range of duties categorized into three main areas: Corporate Compliance & Governance Oversight (50%), Drafting & Researching (25%), and Project Management (25%). In the area of Corporate Compliance & Governance Oversight, the individual will manage the organization’s insurance portfolio, prepare insurance renewals, and liaise with insurance brokers. They will maintain and update corporate records, governmental filings, and facilitate the management of the legal document repository. The role also involves developing ethics and compliance policies related to nonprofit tax issues, sanctions, and general data protection regulations, as well as preparing and delivering related training sessions. In the Drafting & Researching category, the manager will proofread and edit legal documents, secure authentication and apostille of documentation, conduct legal research, and review contracts and policies. Lastly, in Project Management, the individual will support initiatives aimed at strengthening the organization’s legal global network, identify and implement project management tools, and develop and deliver training sessions for staff.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in political science, law, international relations, or equivalent experience. Relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of a degree. A minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience is required, specifically in roles such as full-time paralegal, legal operations, or project management. The candidate should have experience in drafting, implementing, and ensuring compliance with policies and procedures, as well as a strong understanding of corporate insurance policies and portfolio management. Excellent judgment, the ability to set priorities, and make timely decisions are essential, along with experience in project management and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Educational Background:
The position requires a bachelor’s degree in political science, law, international relations, or a related field. Candidates with equivalent experience may also be considered. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in legal principles and practices relevant to the role.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience is necessary for this position. This experience should include full-time roles in paralegal work, legal operations, or project management. Candidates should have a proven track record of drafting and implementing policies and procedures, as well as managing corporate insurance portfolios. Experience in project management is preferred, and candidates should demonstrate the ability to work under pressure and manage multiple deadlines effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in any additional language is considered a plus and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This is a hybrid position requiring 8 days per month in the office located in Washington DC. Candidates must have existing work authorization at the time of application, as WRI is unable to sponsor visa work authorization. The salary range for this position is between $84,000 and $95,000 USD, commensurate with experience and other compensable factors. The organization offers a commitment to a hybrid working model with flexible working hours, generous leave days that increase with tenure, and access to a global network for professional development.