Memphis Area Legal Services (MALS) is seeking a Chief Advocacy Officer (CAO) to design, strategically grow and direct MALS’ litigation and advocacy programs to effectively address the issues of people and communities living in poverty. This position reports to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and is a key member of the senior management team. The CAO is responsible for creating and leading a strategic advocacy vision for MALS; overseeing the quality and effective delivery of legal services; and supervising the firm’s managing attorneys, special project teams and the legal work of each; managing litigation and reviewing requests for appellate and complex case representation.
The CAO also serves as General Counsel for the firm keeping the CEO and board of directors abreast of all laws, policies and regulations governing MALS. In partnership with the CEO and Chief Operations Officer, the CAO promotes a culture of high performance, continuous learning and improvement that supports the effective advancement of MALS’ values and mission.
The CAO is an individual with an extensive and varied litigation background, a history of creative and high impact advocacy, demonstrated leadership in litigation, and substantive expertise in poverty law issues. Salary DOE w/excellent benefits, including 401(K).
For a detailed description, please go to: http://www.malsi.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Chief-Advocacy-Officer-j...
The CAO is an individual with an extensive and varied litigation background, a history of creative and high impact advocacy, demonstrated leadership in litigation, and substantive expertise in poverty law issues.
• Tennessee licensed attorney with ideally ten (10) years but no less than eight (8 )of progressively complex litigation experience; if not yet licensed in Tennessee, able to seek reciprocity
• Successful management experience in a legal services program or law practice, including working in a team environment
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to inspire the trust and confidence of staff, senior leadership, board, clients, pro bono volunteers, and the public
• Strong leadership skills and a leadership style that inspire and encourage professional growth in others
• Skills and experience in mentoring and training less-experienced attorneys
• A commitment to advocating for the legal rights of low-income people
• Exceptionally strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with an ability to identify complex issues and employ strategies to address them
• Ability to work under pressure, interact with diverse individuals, and focus on different tasks simultaneously
• Ability to portray a positive persona with the public and be a positive representative of the organization
• Ability to maintain patience, anticipate needs and problems, and suggest ways to resolve them
• Excellent computer skills
• Good listening skills
Please send a letter of interest, resume and a writing sample to [email protected]. MALS is an E.O.E.