Job Description

Our client is a privately held, family-owned real estate company with a long-standing presence in the market, owning and operating a diverse portfolio of commercial and some residential properties. Their organization values integrity, long-term relationships, and hands-on involvement across all aspects of our business.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced In-House Counsel to serve as the primary legal advisor to the company and its principals. This role provides strategic and practical legal guidance across all aspects of the company’s real estate operations, with a focus on shopping centers and retail properties. The ideal candidate is business-minded, experienced, and comfortable working closely with ownership and cross-functional teams in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.

This position reports directly to senior leadership and works closely with leasing, acquisitions, and operations teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the company’s primary legal counsel on all matters related to real estate operations and transactions
• Draft, review, and negotiate leases, purchase and sale agreements, financing documents, joint venture agreements, and development contracts
• Advise on landlord-tenant matters, zoning and land use issues, construction, and regulatory compliance
• Oversee outside counsel and manage litigation, disputes, and risk mitigation strategies
• Provide legal guidance on corporate governance, and compliance matters
• Support acquisitions, dispositions, refinancing, and portfolio management activities
• Collaborate closely with ownership, asset management, finance, and operations teams

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Active license to practice law in New York State
• Preferably a Minimum of 10 years of legal experience , with substantial experience as an in-house attorney
• Prior in-house experience and/or experience at a law firm representing real estate owners, developers, or investors.
• Strong background in commercial leasing, real estate transactions, and contracts
• Practical, solutions-oriented mindset with strong business judgment
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and organizational skills

Core Experience Required

• Commercial leasing (retail shopping centers strongly preferred)
• Negotiating and drafting leases, amendments, renewals, and tenant work letters
• Acquisitions and dispositions, including contract negotiation and closings
• Experience supporting refinancing and lender negotiations
• Ongoing interaction with leasing teams, asset management, and operations
• Managing and overseeing outside counsel

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