Senior Counsel (Contracts)

Job Description:

Smith & Wesson seeks a Senior Counsel (Contracts) to assist with the evaluation, preparation and negotiation of a broad range of contracts and to participate in related activities in support of the Legal Department.

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Essential Duties/Responsibilities include the following (other duties may be assigned):

• Draft, review, negotiate and prepare commercial contracts, including supply/purchase agreements, sale/distribution agreements and vendor agreements, with a heavy emphasis on information technology contracts, such as SaaS contracts. Be prepared to lead efforts involving informal contract dispute resolution and settlement negotiations. Maintain and update existing contract templates. Work to systematize, manage and develop contract management best practices. Approximately 75% of your time will be devoted to this aspect of the role.
• Work closely with the information technology department and serve as the “go-to” internal legal resource for cybersecurity/privacy. Approximately 15% of your time will be devoted to this aspect of the role.
• Manage the Company’s real property leases, and assist on special projects. Approximately 10% of your time will be devoted to this aspect of the role.
• Assist in maintaining and editing internal company policies and procedures, especially as they pertain to contracts, information technology security and privacy.
• Conduct internal training and provide legal guidance on compliance issues, as necessary.
• Provide legal advice on general business topics.
• Manage external counsel, as necessary.

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Experience Competencies and Education

• Law degree (Juris Doctor) from an accredited institution is required.
• Admission in good standing to the TN Bar is preferred. At a minimum, admission as authorized in-house counsel in TN is required, within the time provided by applicable regulation.
• 2 to 7 years of experience in areas of specific responsibility gained either in a law firm or an in-house environment, although candidates with more experience will be considered.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity and privacy matters is a plus – for example, GDPR, GLBA, HIPAA, CCPA, CPRA, CPA, CVCDPA, UCPA, CDPA, etc.
• Must have excellent writing and verbal skills and superior organizational skills.
• Must be a team player and have strong interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to effectively interact and build relationships with employees at all levels of the business.
• Must be able to work independently, be self-motivated, self-disciplined and results oriented, with an ability to manage priorities and substantial workflow in a fast-paced work environment with ever changing business and legal objectives. Must be willing to adapt to change and drive change.
• Must possess strong business judgment and the ability to understand and respond to business issues and needs.
• Must have a strong commitment to excellence and high standards of integrity, professionalism, loyalty, honesty, respect, open mindedness and business ethics.

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Location

• This role will be based in Maryville, TN (just outside of Knoxville).
• 100% in-office, non-remote
• Local candidates are preferred, although relocation support may be offered to the right candidate.

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Language and Computer Skills

• Must have strong command of the English language, in both verbal and written communications.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint and PowerPoint is desired.

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Training Requirements:

• Complete all necessary training as required by assigned department and position.
• Participate in and follow all company initiatives.

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Miscellaneous:

• Normal office environment conditions apply to this role. Must be able to sit and work at a computer keyboard for extended periods of time.
• The use of personal protective equipment may be required when on a factory floor.
• All employees are required to apply ergonomic principles to all job tasks.
• Within our manufacturing facilities, employees may be exposed to manufacturing noise, airborne liquid chemicals, fine particulate dust, ambient temperatures and industrial lighting.