GENERAL COUNSEL

Job Overview

This full-time executive position provides legal leadership and strategic counsel across Huntsville Utilities. As General Counsel, you will serve as the primary legal advisor to the Boards, CEO, and executive leadership team. The role requires expert legal judgment, exceptional communication skills, and a proactive approach to risk mitigation, litigation, contracts, employment law, compliance, and governance. You will also supervise the EEO and Compliance offices and ensure legal and ethical integrity across the organization.

Compensation and Benefits

• Classification: Executive
• Benefits: Yes (comprehensive executive benefits package)
• Employment Type: Full Time

Key Responsibilities

• Advise the Boards, CEO, and executive leadership on legal matters impacting operations and strategy
• Track, manage, and maintain all legal proceedings, filings, and documentation
• Draft, review, and analyze pleadings, contracts, and legal documents
• Lead internal legal communications and deliver legal updates to management, employees, and stakeholders
• Oversee all litigation, administrative proceedings, mediation, and dispute resolution efforts—either independently or with outside counsel
• Interpret and ensure compliance with applicable laws, rulings, and regulations
• Provide legal guidance to department heads on risks, policies, and decisions
• Supervise and direct the EEO Manager and Compliance Manager, including oversight of both departments
• Review and manage legally binding documents, including vendor agreements, purchasing contracts, rate negotiations, and policy changes

Additional Duties

• Address labor and employment law issues, including employee and customer-related claims
• Prepare and deliver responses to regulatory inquiries and manage audit or examination processes
• Fulfill Open Records Requests and maintain legal transparency
• Anticipate legal risks and offer strategic, compliant solutions
• Maintain ethical decision-making and foster a legally sound organizational culture
• Represent the utility in interactions with elected officials, external agencies, and community organizations
• Deliver presentations to the City Council, Boards, professional groups, and employee audiences
• Stay current with legislation affecting public utilities and engage policymakers as needed

Education and Credentials

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school
• Active membership in good standing with the Alabama State Bar

Experience and Skills

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive legal experience relevant to public utility operations (litigation, employment law, contracts, compliance, risk) – Required
• High standards of ethics, discretion, and legal integrity – Required
• Strong written and verbal communication skills – Required
• Previous management experience in public utilities, customer service, or corporate affairs – Preferred
• Experience working with Boards, City Council, and public or stakeholder groups – Preferred

Working Conditions

• Environment: Office setting with minimal exposure to severe weather or physical hazards
• Physical Demands: Sedentary with occasional extended hours; requires focus under pressure
• Tools and Equipment: Computer, phone, and company vehicle

Additional Requirements

• Must be a self-starter with strong leadership and interpersonal skills
• Must remain accessible and responsive during urgent or high-impact situations
• Must demonstrate sound judgment and professionalism in high-stakes scenarios

Competencies

• Accepting Responsibility
• Acting Strategically
• Acting with Integrity
• Building and Demonstrating Respect
• Communicating Effectively
• Demonstrating Legal Expertise
• Driving Quality & Excellence
• Making Accurate Judgments
• Supporting Organizational Goals
• Solving Complex Problems
• Legal Knowledge and Risk Management
• Education and Longevity

Equal Opportunity Statement

Huntsville Utilities is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the E-Verify program. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Disclaimer

The duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description should not be interpreted as a complete list. The scope and functions of the position may be amended by the Department Head and leadership as necessary to align with evolving organizational needs.