Board Member/Director of Legal Affairs and Compliance Job Description

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Position Overview: The Director of Legal Affairs and Compliance is a key member of the nonprofit board, responsible for ensuring United Social Services Inc. (USS) operates within all legal and regulatory frameworks. This role involves overseeing governance, compliance, and risk management to protect the organization’s interests while supporting its mission to uplift vulnerable populations.

Time Commitment: 10 to 15 hours per month.

Reports To: Board of Directors and Founder/President & CEO.

Meetings and Responsibilities

• Attend scheduled board meetings including regular, annual, and special meetings.

• Participate in community events, advocacy efforts, and fundraising activities to support United Social Services Inc. (USS).

Key Responsibilities

1. Legal Oversight

• Provide legal guidance to the board and leadership team on nonprofit governance, contracts, and risk management.

• Review and draft policies, contracts, agreements, and other legal documents to ensure compliance with applicable laws.

1. Compliance Management

• Monitor and ensure adherence to local, state, and federal regulations applicable to nonprofit organizations, including 501(c)(3) requirements.

• Oversee compliance with employment laws, tax regulations, and fundraising standards.

• Ensure the organization complies with grant agreements and donor stipulations.

1. Risk Management

• Identify potential legal risks and provide strategies to mitigate them.

• Develop and oversee USS’s risk management framework, including liability insurance, program audits, and participant protections.

• Ensure proper documentation and reporting to safeguard the organization’s legal standing.

1. Board Governance and Training

• Ensure compliance with nonprofit governance best practices, including maintaining bylaws, meeting minutes, and board resolutions.

• Provide training and resources to board members and staff on legal and compliance matters.

1. Dispute Resolution

• Handle legal disputes or claims against the organization in collaboration with external counsel if necessary.

• Serve as the liaison with legal professionals, regulatory agencies, and other relevant entities.

1. Ethical Standards

• Promote ethical standards and integrity in all aspects of USS’s operations.

• Oversee the development and implementation of policies related to conflicts of interest, whistleblowing, and other ethical issues.

Desired Skills and Qualifications

• Licensed attorney with expertise in nonprofit law, compliance, and governance.

• Strong understanding of IRS regulations, 501(c)(3) compliance, and state-specific nonprofit requirements.

• Experience in risk management, contracts, and organizational policy development.

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.

• Proven ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and provide clear legal guidance.

Impact of the Role: The Director of Legal Affairs and Compliance will safeguard USS’s legal integrity and ensure ethical and compliant operations, enabling the organization to focus on its mission of supporting at-risk and underserved populations. By proactively managing risks and maintaining robust governance, this position will ensure USS is well-positioned for sustainable growth and impact.