Executive Director of Legal Affairs and Compliance Full-time Job

Responsibilities

Legal Duties

Provide expert legal counsel and guidance to various university stakeholders, including senior leadership, academic departments, faculty, and support units, on various legal matters such as contracts, non-disclosure agreements, external consulting, and regulatory compliance.

Develop legal procedures, policies, and Bylaws for the university and affiliated entities.

Evaluate internal and external legal disputes, oversee contract negotiations, and review legal agreements to safeguard the university's and affiliated entities' interests.

Act as the university's legal representative in legal departments and courts, oversee interactions with external legal counsel, and represent the university in legal proceedings when necessary.

Supervise the preparation of presentations on legislation affecting the university or affiliated entities while also developing legal guidelines for interpreting laws, regulations, and university procedures.

Monitor legal developments and regulatory changes in the UAE and relevant international jurisdictions, advising on their implications for the university and recommending necessary actions to ensure compliance.

Compliance Duties

Lead the development and review of university policies and procedures to ensure alignment with legal requirements and best practices, enhancing overall compliance and governance.

Develop and implement a comprehensive compliance program encompassing all university operations, ensuring strict adherence to relevant laws, regulations, and ethical principles while staying updated on emerging compliance trends and integrating best practices.

Oversee compliance monitoring with legal regulations, policies, and industry standards and establish effective reporting mechanisms for identified non-compliance issues.

Identify legal risks, implement mitigation strategies, and ensure comprehensive organizational risk management.

Qualifications And Skills Required

Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

Admission to the state bar or equivalent qualification in another jurisdiction, in good standing.

Minimum of 10 years of experience in legal and compliance roles, with a preference for experience in higher education or a related field.

Familiarity with local laws, legal practices, and professional connections in the local landscape.

Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.

Demonstrated ability to manage complex legal and compliance issues effectively.

Proven experience in leading teams and driving organizational change.

For more than 25 years, American University of Sharjah (AUS) has promoted ideas, research and creative work that have inspired development and change, driven by our core belief that tomorrow matters. AUS was founded in 1997 by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed AlQasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. The embodiment of His Highness vision, AUS is a place where students are nurtured and encouraged to excel academically, thrive socially, celebrate their cultural diversity, and have a positive influence in their communities.
Located in University City, Sharjah, AUS is a not-for-profit, independent, institution of higher education formed on the American model. We offer 28 majors and 45 minors at the undergraduate level, 15 master's degrees programs and four PhD programs through the College of Architecture, Art and Design; the College of Arts and Sciences; the College of Engineering; and the School of Business Administration. These programs are designed to meet the challenges of a competitive and dynamic business and industrial environment.