Description:

Position Scope
The General Counsel position is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing all legal matters within the US market. This position requires a deep understanding of US law, regulatory requirements, and the intricacies of legal matters across multiple states. This role will provide strategic legal counsel, manage compliance efforts, and ensure that the organization's business activities are conducted in strict adherence to relevant laws and regulations. The role reports to the Chief Executive Officer and will be based at the company's head office in Irving, Texas.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Regulatory Compliance:

Stay up to date with regulations, laws and standards affecting the restaurant industry.
Develop and enforce policies and procedures to ensure full compliance across all corporate operations.

Contract Management:

Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of contracts, including franchise agreements, management contracts, supplier contracts, lease agreements, and more.
Collaborate with external legal counsel to address complex legal matters requiring specialized expertise as and when required.

Litigation Management:

Manage legal disputes, claims, or litigation involving operations, and third-party partners.
Work closely with external counsel when required to devise litigation strategies, negotiate settlements, and represent the organization in legal proceedings.

Intellectual Property and Brand Protection:

Safeguard the group's intellectual property rights and branding.
Address potential infringements and oversee the enforcement of intellectual property rights when necessary.

Employment and Labor Matters:

Provide legal support on employment law matters, including contracts, workplace policies, and compliance with employment regulations.
Advise on employee relations, terminations, and other HR-related legal issues.

Risk Mitigation and Training:

Identify potential legal risks and take proactive measures to mitigate them in accordance with US laws.
Conduct training sessions for employees, and management, to promote legal awareness and adherence.

Experience + Education

Minimum of 5+ years of progressively responsible experience.
A Juris Doctor Degree and relevant work experience in a similar multi-unit capacity.
Comprehensive understanding of US laws, regulations, and industry-specific legal standards applicable to restaurants.
Demonstrated experience in providing strategic legal guidance to executive leadership and driving legal initiatives aligned with business goals.
Strong ability to analyze complex legal issues, anticipate potential challenges, and formulate proactive solutions.
Ability to draft, review, and negotiate agreements in compliance with local regulations.
Proven track record of successfully navigating franchise expansion and management.
Exceptional contract drafting, negotiation, and review skills, with the ability to ensure legal protection while maintaining favorable business terms.
Experience in managing legal disputes, litigation, and alternative dispute resolution processes.
Ability to collaborate effectively with external legal counsel and represent the organization's interests in legal proceedings.
Proficiency in protecting and enforcing intellectual property rights, including trademarks and copyrights.
Ability to handle IP-related disputes and coordinate with relevant stakeholders.
Thorough understanding of compliance requirements, including employment law, health and safety regulations, data protection, and more.
Proven ability to develop and implement compliance policies and procedures.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, enabling effective interaction with cross-functional teams, senior leadership, and external partners.
Ability to communicate complex legal concepts in a clear and understandable manner.
Strong analytical skills to identify legal risks, assess their potential impact, and devise strategies to mitigate them.
Proven ability to find practical and legally sound solutions to complex challenges.
High level of ethical standards, integrity, and professionalism in all interactions and decision-making.
Understanding of the restaurant industry's dynamics, competitive landscape, and the ability to align legal strategies with business objectives.