Corporate Counsel

Accountabilities:: As a key member of the legal department, you will provide comprehensive legal support across business operations, corporate governance, risk management, and franchise activities while ensuring that legal strategies remain aligned with organizational objectives. Review, draft, negotiate, and manage a wide range of commercial agreements, including franchise agreements, vendor contracts, service agreements, and operational arrangements. Manage litigation matters, coordinate with external legal counsel, support discovery processes, and develop strategies to protect organizational interests. Monitor compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, identifying potential legal risks and implementing appropriate mitigation strategies. Support the maintenance and expansion of intellectual property portfolios, including trademarks, copyrights, and patents, and coordinate enforcement activities when necessary. Oversee corporate insurance programs, including policy reviews, coverage assessments, claims management, and coordination with insurance carriers, insurance managers, and panel counsel. Provide legal guidance on employment and human resources matters, including employee relations, workplace investigations, employment litigation, wage and hour requirements, and ADA/FMLA compliance. Advise on the development and implementation of employment policies, compliance procedures, and training programs aligned with organizational culture and values. Support executive leadership on corporate governance matters involving the organization and its subsidiaries in the United States and Canada. Advise on licensing and regulatory requirements, including liquor licensing and compliance across multiple jurisdictions. Provide legal guidance on franchise operations, franchise agreements, regulatory obligations, and contractual compliance. Conduct legal research and prepare clear written and verbal legal opinions to support business units and leadership decision-making. Collaborate with internal departments and external advisors to address complex legal issues and support business initiatives. Manage multiple legal priorities independently, including urgent matters that may occasionally require attention outside standard business hours. Requirements : The ideal candidate is an experienced legal professional with strong commercial judgment, broad corporate law knowledge, and the ability to translate complex legal matters into practical business recommendations. Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school. Active license to practice law in at least one U.S. state; Montana bar admission is preferred. At least 5 years of legal experience in a law firm or in-house legal environment. Location in the United States, with the ability to work remotely or from the home office in Billings, Montana. Demonstrated expertise in commercial contract drafting, review, negotiation, and management. Strong background in litigation management or litigation support, including experience coordinating with external counsel. Proven experience managing insurance matters, including coverage analysis, policy reviews, and claims handling. Substantive knowledge and experience in employment law, including workplace compliance and employee-related legal matters. General understanding of corporate law, corporate governance, and business operations. Excellent legal research, writing, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders. Strong strategic thinking, negotiation, and risk assessment capabilities. Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. Ability to work independently while maintaining effective relationships with internal teams and external partners. High ethical standards, sound professional judgment, and a strong commitment to confidentiality. Preferred Qualifications: Experience in franchising and familiarity with franchise regulations, including the FTC Franchise Rule and applicable state franchise laws. Knowledge of liquor licensing requirements and regulatory compliance, particularly in supporting alcohol sales across multiple jurisdictions. Familiarity with Montana business laws and regulatory requirements. Project management experience. Previous experience working as in-house counsel. Demonstrated experience managing litigation and coordinating with outside legal counsel. Genuine interest in outdoor hospitality and recreation, including camping, RV travel, or glamping. Additional Position Details: The role can be performed remotely or from the home office in Billings, Montana. Occasional travel is required, representing approximately 10% of the position, including visits to company locations, events, and legal seminars. The position may require occasional availability outside standard business hours to address urgent legal matters. Visa sponsorship is not available. Remote employment is not available in the following states: Alaska, Idaho, North Dakota, District of Columbia, Louisiana, Rhode Island, Hawaii, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The role involves regular computer-based work, occasional lifting and carrying of items up to 20 pounds, and potential driving to business locations and conferences. Benefits : Medical and vision insurance. Dental insurance. Health Savings Account (HSA). Flexible Spending Account (FSA). Dependent Care Account. Employer-paid life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance. Employer-paid short-term and long-term disability insurance. Voluntary life and AD&D insurance. Voluntary critical illness insurance. Voluntary accident insurance. Voluntary hospital indemnity insurance. Paid time off (PTO). Paid parental leave. Employee Assistance Program (EAP). 401(k) retirement savings plan. Employer contributions to the 401(k) plan.