Director of Legal Operations and Risk Management

ABOUT WATG

WATG is the world’s preeminent destination and hospitality design firm. We are employee-owned, home to more than 500 professionals globally, located remotely and in our offices in Atlantic City, California, Dallas, New York, Honolulu, London, Singapore, and Shanghai.

Our approach to design applies a hospitality ethos to the development of all shapes and sizes. From initial feasibility studies to finishing touches, we operate globally as an integrated, multidisciplinary practice. Along with our interior design studio, Wimberly Interiors, we specialize in hospitality, gaming + entertainment, urban + mixed-use, and high-end residential design.

We were founded in Honolulu in 1945, and the spirit of the islands taught us to focus on community strength, self-reliance, and sustainability – which we still prioritize today. We passionately believe that culture and heritage are the roots that lead to long-term resilience. We stay true to our values of designing spaces that respect, protect, and enhance the natural magic of their surroundings while delivering long-term value for our clients and their communities.

WATG is hiring a Director of Legal Operations & Risk Management , based in our New York, Tustin, Los Angeles, or Dallas office.

ROLE

The Director of Legal Operations & Risk Management supports the delivery of legal, governance, compliance, and risk management services to WATG and Wimberly Interiors. The role partners closely with the Chief Legal Officer and focuses on operational execution, coordination, and oversight of legal-related processes across the organization. The scope and authority of the role may vary depending on the qualifications of the individual appointed and the delegations made by the Chief Legal Officer. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Legal Operations & Department Management

• Supports the Chief Legal Officer in managing legal department operations, workflows, and priorities
• Implements legal processes, policies, templates, and playbooks approved by the Chief Legal Officer and manages and maintains policies and intranet legal pages

Contracts & Commercial Support

• Prepares, reviews, negotiates, and administers contracts in accordance with approved frameworks, templates, and risk parameters
• Identifies and escalates legal, regulatory, or risk issues to the Chief Legal Officer or external counsel, as appropriate
• Coordinates contract execution, compliance, and recordkeeping

Corporate Governance & Entity Management

• Oversees corporate entity management, filings, and maintenance of corporate records
• Prepares corporate governance documentation, including agendas, minutes, resolutions, and written consents, subject to applicable review and approval requirements
• Supports the Board, officers, and corporate actions in coordination with the Chief Legal Officer and the Board Chair’s direction

Compliance, Licensure & Risk Coordination

• Coordinates professional firm licensure, registrations, and renewals across jurisdictions
• Tracks regulatory and compliance requirements impacting the firm and supports implementation of compliance programs
• Supports risk management initiatives, including policy administration and issue tracking

Insurance & Claims Administration

• Coordinates with insurance brokers on policy administration, renewals, and claims
• Tracks claims activity, litigation spend, and related reporting
• Manages insurance certificates and supports insurance renewals

Corporate Agency & Officer Support

• May act as an authorized agent of the corporation in transactions or administrative matters, consistent with delegated authority
• May serve as Assistant Corporate Secretary, if appointed

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in business or related field, with advanced knowledge of legal principles and contract law 
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in contracts management, international business issues, insurance and risk management, preferably in the A/E/C industry
• Juris Doctor and active bar admission may be required or preferred depending on role configuration
• Proficient in MS Office and Adobe applications 
• Strong analytical skills and logical thinking
• Exceptional organizational skills 
• Excellent negotiation skills with a proven ability to build and maintain resilient working relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Ability to work well under pressure within tight deadlines while serving multiple clients
• Highly effective written and verbal communication skills
• Able to maintain confidential matters with the utmost discretion
• Proven experience in managing and motivating others

*Please include a copy of your resume to be considered for this position.

WATG is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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