Job Description

The General Counsel will play a key leadership role in overseeing Freestates contractual and legal risk across all business operations. This individual will collaborate closely with our Chief Executive Officer, Senior VPs Of Operations, VP of Human Resources, and VP/CFO to align contractual decisions, project execution, and Human Resource policy development with the companys overall risk tolerances and strategic objectives.

The successful candidate will combine strong legal and business acumen with sound judgment to protect the companys interests while enabling growth.

Principal Accountabilities

Contract Review & Negotiation

Lead the review, redlining, and negotiation of customer, subcontractor, and vendor agreements in collaboration with Executive leadership, ensuring compliance with Freestates established risk thresholds.

Standard Agreement Development

Partner with leadership to establish and maintain standard contract templates and master service agreements for recurring customers, general contractors, and key partners.

Claims & Dispute Support

Advise and assist project teams in evaluating and documenting claims, delays, and potential disputes. Provide strategic guidance on risk mitigation and help prepare responses or documentation for resolution.

Litigation Coordination

Serve as the internal point of contact for outside counsel on active litigation, pre-litigation disputes, and other legal matters, ensuring effective communication and alignment between counsel and internal stakeholders.

Pre-Construction & New Endeavors

Collaborate with Pre-Construction teams to evaluate legal and commercial risks associated with new opportunities, proposals, or joint ventures.

Policy & Compliance Support

Lead the continued development of internal contract management procedures, risk mitigation strategies, and compliance best practices.

Training & Mentorship

Teach, coach, and mentor project teams and operational leaders on key contract terms, insurance provisions, and risk mitigation strategies to strengthen organizational understanding and consistency in project execution.

Collaboration & Coordination with Sojitz

Assist Executive leadership in coordinating with Sojitz to maintain, develop and enforce corporate policies including, but not limited to schedules of authority, risk management protocols and corporate best practices.

Human Resources

Provide guidance and advice regarding compliance with HR related laws and regulations as well as assisting with dispute resolution as needed.

Qualifications for Success

• Bachelors degree in Business Administration, Construction Management, Legal Studies, or related field required; Juris Doctor (JD) licensed and admitted to the MD Bar (DC and VA Bar admissions preferred but not required).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in contract negotiation, construction law, or risk management within a construction or engineering environment.
• Strong understanding of construction contracting principles, including indemnification, insurance, payment terms, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Proven ability to balance risk with business objectives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with an ability to translate complex legal concepts into clear, practical business language.
• Collaborative approach with the ability to build trust and work effectively with executives, operations teams, and external partners.

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