This position is part of the Office of the General Counsel, which represents The University of Tennessee, a statewide system of public higher education. The Office of the General Counsel defends the University and its employees in all phases of employment and other civil litigation (including discovery, motions, trial, and appeal) and represents the University in administrative proceedings involving allegations of student or employee misconduct. Within the Office of the General Counsel, the Deputy General Counsel for Litigation and Employment (Deputy GC) reports directly to the General Counsel and is responsible for supervising all litigation of the University.

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The University of Tennessee System is the state’s oldest higher education institution and preeminent public university. The UT System is comprised of campuses at Knoxville, Chattanooga, Pulaski and Martin; the Health Science Center at Memphis; and the statewide Institute of Agriculture and Institute for Public Service. With a presence in each of Tennessee’s 95 counties and through the combined force of education, research and outreach, the University serves students, business and industry, schools, governments, organizations and residents statewide.

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The University of Tennessee System is the state’s oldest higher education institution and preeminent public university. The UT System is comprised of campuses at Knoxville, Chattanooga, Pulaski and Martin; the Health Science Center at Memphis; and the statewide Institute of Agriculture and Institute for Public Service. With a presence in each of Tennessee’s 95 counties and through the combined force of education, research and outreach, the University serves students, business and industry, schools, governments, organizations and residents statewide.

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Required:

At least ten (10) years of civil practice experience in a law firm or in a corporate, higher education, or government legal office; record of outstanding achievements as a practicing attorney; excellent academic record; exceptional analytical, problem-solving, diplomatic, and oral and written communication skills; demonstrated ability to manage multiple, demanding tasks; demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks and work independently in a highly collegial and high-performing environment; highly versatile set of legal skills; pragmatic and objective business acumen and ability to recognize the broader consequences of legal advice; ability to perceive and explain to non-lawyers the practical application of law and policy in complex situations; high degree of personal integrity, sound judgment, and a commitment to accountability; initiative and intellectual curiosity.

Preferred:

Strong litigation experience, ideally with trial and appellate experience; public higher education experience.

Pay Scale Type:

Market Range 22, with salary negotiable, within budgetary parameters, based on qualifications and experience

Materials Required for Consideration:

Letter of application, resume, and three references knowledgeable of applicant’s legal skills and experience.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Benefits

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits and much more. Additionally, Tennessee residents do not pay a state income tax. For more information on the University of Tennessee’s benefits, visit https://hr.tennessee.edu/benefits/

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The Deputy GC serves in a management and supervisory role with regard to other lawyers handling litigation matters, makes strategic litigation decisions relating to these matters that may impact all levels of the University, and provides recommendations to the General Counsel with regard to the settlement of litigation matters. The Deputy GC also serves as the primary liaison with the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office regarding litigation and claims involving the University.

The Deputy GC also interacts with all levels of the University’s administration, principally in an advice and counsel capacity, including without limitation matters relating to staff employment issues, human resources, and other matters of substantial magnitude related to crucial University activities.

It is preferred for this position to be located in Knoxville, Tennessee, but responsibilities will involve service to all campuses and institutes in the University System.