Vice President and General Counsel at George Washington University

About the George Washington University

The George Washington University (GW), chartered by Congress in 1821, is a leading global research institution located in the heart of Washington, D.C., offering unparalleled access to international organizations, federal agencies, and world‑class experiential learning opportunities. Home to more than 25,000 students from all 50 states and over 135 countries, GW fosters a vibrant academic community supported by renowned faculty, 10 schools, 35+ cross‑disciplinary research institutes, and a worldwide alumni network of more than 330,000 graduates. Its unique location, globally engaged campus, and deep connections to influential institutions create a learning environment where students translate knowledge into action and engage directly with the world’s most pressing challenges.

Position Overview

The Vice President and General Counsel (GC) serves as the George Washington University’s chief legal officer and a key member of the President’s Cabinet. Reporting to the President and the Board of Trustees, the General Counsel advises the university’s leadership, faculty, and staff on a wide range of legal, strategic, and risk‑related matters affecting the institution.

The GC plays a vital role in navigating complex legal and strategic challenges across GW’s multifaceted enterprise, which includes an academic medical enterprise and various professional schools. The role requires a deep understanding of the legal issues facing a large research university and the ability to provide forward‑looking, practical guidance that supports institutional decision‑making and advances GW’s mission and strategic goals.

The GC oversees the Office of the Vice President and General Counsel (OGC), leading a team of generalists and subject‑matter experts as well as managing the engagement and oversight of outside counsel. The successful candidate will be a trusted counselor and thought partner to the President, Board of Trustees, and senior leadership, bringing sound judgment, composure, and a collaborative leadership style to a dynamic higher education environment.

The Vice President and General Counsel will:

  •        Serve as GW’s chief legal officer and primary legal advisor to the President, Board of Trustees, and senior leadership on matters affecting             institutional operations.

  •        Advise leadership on institutional risk and emerging opportunities, ensuring decisions align with long‑term objectives and safeguard the             university’s reputation, compliance, and financial integrity.

  •        Lead and manage the Office of General Counsel, delivering comprehensive legal services and fostering a high‑performing, collaborative               legal and compliance function.

  •        Oversee all legal matters across the university, including litigation, investigations, and a broad portfolio of legal domains such as                           governance, research and healthcare regulation, labor and employment, civil rights, privacy, tax, real estate, transactions, international                   partnerships, and intellectual property.

  •        Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, local, and global regulations; manage relationships with regulatory agencies; and oversee           the selection and management of outside counsel and legal matters related to tax‑exempt status and affiliated entities.

Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will bring:

  •        J.D. from an accredited law school and admission to the District of Columbia Bar, or eligibility to obtain admission within one year.

  •        Minimum of ten years of legal practice, with experience in higher education strongly preferred; relevant experience in government,                       corporate, law firm, or executive settings will also be considered.

  •        Demonstrated success advising senior leaders on institutional risk, governance, and compliance issues.

  •        Proven ability to lead and develop collaborative, highperforming teams grounded in professionalism and respect.

  •        Experience navigating complex legal, strategic, and political issues affecting large, multifaceted institutions, including an understanding of           the dynamic political landscape facing GW.

To Apply

The George Washington University has engaged Spencer Stuart to assist with this search. Candidates wishing to apply or to nominate someone for the position of Vice President and General Counsel should submit materials to GWVPGC@spencerstuart.com. 

For additional information about the George Washington University, please visit: https://www.gwu.edu/. 


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