General Counsel

Scope and Responsibilities:

The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) is seeking candidates for the newly created position of General Counsel. This individual will report directly to the Commissioner, serve as a member of the Executive Team, and play a leadership role in setting the strategic vision of the Conference.

Specific Responsibilities: 

• Oversee and be responsible for all legal matters and enterprise risk management of the Conference.

• Manage litigation and other claims, internally and with the assistance of outside counsel.

• Provide counsel on all legal matters, including local, state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations,

• Conference and NCAA rules and bylaws, as well as laws pertaining to, without limitation, personnel, contracts, tax, liability, antitrust, and insurance.

• Provide legal consultation to the Board of Directors, Executive Committee, Advisory Committees, Conference committees and service groups.

• Develop and manage an annual legal budget for the Conference.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for the Conference institutional General Counsels.

• Manage the relationships of outside legal providers to include selecting and retaining outside counsel and negotiating fees.

• Assist office leadership with developing a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Commissioner.

Key Selection Criteria:

• Bachelor’s Degree.

• Juris Doctor from an American Bar Association accredited law school.

• Active license to practice law, in good standing with the corresponding state bar association, and admittance to the North Carolina state bar within a reasonable period after employment.

• 10+ years of experience in the practice of law with a preference for experience in one or more of the following: business transactions, corporate governance, collegiate sports, non-profit organizations, and major litigation.

• Strong research, analytical, and investigative skills, and the ability to document and present findings in a clear and concise manner.

• Proficient computer literacy skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, databases, and relevant legal software.

Note: Salary and benefits package will be competitive and commensurate with experience. Review of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Effective August 2023, the Atlantic Coast Conference office will relocate from Greensboro to Charlotte, North Carolina.

DHR Global is assisting the Atlantic Coast Conference in this search. Initial screening of the applications and nominations will continue until an appointment is made. Individuals who wish to nominate a candidate should submit a brief letter of nomination including contact information for the nominee. Application materials should include a resume, cover letter, and references.

Submission of documents as separate PDF attachments is strongly encouraged. Inquiries, nominations, and application materials should be directed to DHR Global via the email: acc.generalcounsel@dhrglobal.com