Partner Matters Unit Lawyer
Allen & Overy
- Washington DC
- $165,000-185,000 per year
- Permanent
- Full-time
We're on an exciting journey to create an even stronger offering for our clients and our people: In May 2023, we announced our proposed merger with Shearman and Sterling, with the intention of becoming a new global leader named Allen Overy Shearman Sterling, A&O Shearman for short.
With a shared commitment to attracting and retaining the best people and an equal focus on creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace, we're confident that this merger will further our efforts to leave a better firm for future generations as well as providing our people with exceptional career opportunities along the way.
Once complete, the merger will combine two of the world's most prestigious law firms, leaders in their respective markets, to create an integrated global elite firm. You can read more about this on our dedicated microsite www.announcingaoss.com.
We have a powerful commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and we're working hard to create an environment where you can bring your authentic self to work. We know that to excel, we must nurture an environment where our people feel they belong.Department purpose
The HR team at Allen & Overy provides a first-class service to the business, offering strategic HR business advice at the business partner level and quality support services in the full range of HR functions through specialist teams such as learning & development, resourcing, reward, employee relations, payroll, systems and HR administration.
The Partner Matters Unit (PMU) provides comprehensive advice and support directly to the global partnership, with the ultimate aim of streamlining and enhancing the experience partners have in relation to their own HR matters. The legal team within the PMU compliments this aim by ensuring the consistent application of the firm's constitutional and governance documents to the firm's partners.
In light of the upcoming combination with Shearman and Sterling LLP, the PMU are looking for a dedicated lawyer in the US to support the team within the new combined firm.Role purpose
The role includes providing legal advice and guidance both to the firm and its partners on the firm's constitutional documents and HR-related policies and procedures, with a specific emphasis on the firm's operations in the US.Key relationships
- Associate Director (PMU)/Head of Legal (PMU).
- US General Counsel and Head of Risk & Compliance.
- Chief Human Resources Officer in the US and the other global HR Heads.
- Internal networks (including Business Acceptance, In-House Legal, Regulation and Conduct and Partnership Finance and Tax teams).
- Acting as a point of advice to global partners and HR teams on the firm's constitutional and governance documents and partner HR-related matters.
- In conjunction with the Head of Legal (PMU), providing support and advice on specific partner issues to the US GC where necessary.
- In conjunction with the Head of Legal (PMU), managing the documentary process throughout the partnership lifecycle.
- Drafting specific partner documents including offer letters, letters of admission, equity agreements, withdrawal agreements and releases.
- Managing the formalities (including documentation) of promotion to partnership and equity progression within all A&O practice entities in liaison with local HR teams (with a specific emphasis on the US).
- Advising on partner relocations and secondments including terms and contractual issues and coordinating with relevant internal colleagues to ensure that transitioning partners are dealt with efficiently, sensitively and consistently.
- In conjunction with the Head of Legal (PMU), managing the process around withdrawals from the partnership, including the negotiation of specific clauses and agreements and the co-ordination of partner withdrawals with the other support teams in the US.
- Researching and monitoring relevant legal and regulatory developments as they apply to partners including the latest position on professional conduct rules as they apply to partners in the US.
- Updating of specific partner policies when applicable in line with professional conduct rules in the US.
- Dealing with ad hoc queries from partners, HR heads etc., including ability to determine appropriate course of action assisted by developed network of contacts.
- Working with the global HR team on any project work that may arise, including but not limited to, the opening of new offices or change management programs.
- Maintenance of partner files, working with the appropriate HR Heads and continually developing our processes, documentation and reporting in relation to partner matters.
- The ideal candidate will have significant legal experience in a law firm, in-house, or regulatory environment, preferably with exposure to partnership law, professional conduct rules, corporate governance, and HR law. International experience would also be a benefit.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel. Microsoft Powerpoint would also be a benefit.
- Proven ability to research and monitor on-going legal and regulatory developments as they apply to partners in the US.
- Excellent drafting and negotiation skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Strong commercial acumen, together with the ability and credibility to form effective 'client' relationships across all levels including the highest levels of management.
- Proven discretion and ability to deal with sensitive issues and to influence at all levels.
- Proven ability to multi-task, deliver advice in a measured, pragmatic and risk-conscious manner that balances legal risks and business objectives- strong organizational skills required.
- Excellent communication skills (verbal and written) and interpersonal skills.
- An independent self-starter, pro-active and a quick learner, with a willingness to try their hand at new things, take ownership of matters and drive them forward.
- Flexibility around days/hours during peak times.