Legal Counsel (First In-House Hire)
A fast-growing media organization is seeking its first in-house attorney to build and lead the company’s legal function. The ideal candidate has experience supporting early-stage or scaling startups - preferably within media, journalism, or publishing - and is comfortable operating in a dynamic, high-growth environment. This role reports to the CFO and will play a pivotal part in shaping legal operations as the company continues its expansion.
Key Responsibilities
- Draft, review, and negotiate vendor contracts (U.S. and Middle East), including those related to journalism conferences and live events
- Advise on media law, First Amendment issues, HR matters, pro-temp licensing, and general corporate contracting
- Operate effectively in a fast-paced, low-ego, high-accountability environment
- Help shape and eventually build out the legal team as the company grows
Candidate Profile
U.S. work authorization, J.D. from Top 25 U.S. law school and New York Bar membership (or ability to waive in / reactivate).Experience supporting startups—either in-house or as outside counsel for media or media-adjacent companiesStrong familiarity with First Amendment, defamation law, IP and privacy law and other media-law-related considerations.5–10+ years of experience preferred, though more senior candidates will be consideredBright, polished, and agile; able to succeed in “managed chaos”Highly collaborative with a strong teamwork orientationStrong preference for experience managing live events.Compensation & Benefits
Base salary : $225K–$265K20% bonus or moreMedical, HSA, dental, parental leave, unlimited PTO401(k) available (no current employer match)Work Environment
In-office (NYC) Monday–Thursday and remote work on FridaysFast-moving, highly collaborative cultureProfitable, and growing quicklyStart Timeline
Ideal start in early Q1, with flexibility for earlier onboardingInterested candidates are encouraged to apply if they are excited by the opportunity to build an in-house legal function from the ground up in a mission-driven media environment and if they meet the basic qualifications.