Legal Counsel

Application Deadline: This position will remain open until filled

The Organization

The Winnipeg Airports Authority (WAA) is a community-based, non-share capital corporation that operates, manages, maintains, and invests in the Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport and affiliate businesses. Operating on a multi-site property, the WAA is responsible for airport operations, security, facilities, parking, ground transportation and communications.

With an ever-expanding airport campus, WAA is a critical player in the development of one of Canada’s strategic transportation hubs. As a perennial “Top Manitoba Employer”, the WAA prides itself as an organization that attracts engaged employees with the right skills, in the right place, and at the right time http://www.waa.ca.

The Opportunity

Reporting to General Counsel, the Legal Counsel, will assist the Legal Department of the Winnipeg Airports Authority (WAA) by providing support in all areas of law with a particular emphasis on commercial real estate and contracts as well as regulatory compliance and litigation support.

Leading and supporting sensitive and privileged legal matters, the Legal Counsel will play a critical role in ensuring the successful functioning of the legal team within WAA. Working closely with leaders across the organization, this position provides practical legal advice, supports strategic initiatives, manages legal risk, and contributes to the development and implementation of effective legal and compliance practices.

Responsibilities include:

• Draft, review, negotiate, and provide legal advice on a wide variety of commercial real estate agreements, including lease agreements and development-related matters
• Provide strategic legal guidance to business units on real estate transactions, property development, and land use matters
• Draft, review, and negotiate commercial contracts and legal correspondence supporting airport operations and corporate initiatives
• Provide legal advice on operational, commercial, and business matters across the organization
• Support the interpretation and application of legislation, regulations, policies, and compliance requirements affecting airport authorities
• Assist with the development, review, and maintenance of organizational policies, procedures, and governance documents
• Monitor legal and regulatory developments and provide guidance on compliance obligationsAssist with claims, disputes, litigation matters, and investigations, including coordinating with external legal counsel where required
• Conduct legal research and prepare legal opinions, briefs, affidavits, and other supporting documentation
• Support the General Counsel in managing legal resources and external legal service providers
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and other legal department activities as assigned

Selection Criteria include:

• Law degree (LL.B. or J.D.) from a recognized institution
• Member in good standing or eligible for membership with the Law Society of Manitoba
• Minimum three (3) to five (5) years of experience practicing commercial law with an emphasis on commercial real estate or a combination of demonstrated comparable experience
• Demonstrated experience drafting, reviewing, and negotiating complex commercial agreements
• Strong understanding of commercial leasing and complex real estate transactions
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex legal concepts to non-legal audiences
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while exercising sound professional judgment and maintaining confidentiality
• Experience providing legal advice in a corporate, commercial, or public-sector environment considered an asset
• Knowledge of regulatory compliance, governance, and risk management principles considered an asset
• Experience supporting litigation matters and working with external legal counsel considered an asset
• Experience in aviation, infrastructure, real estate development, or a regulated industry would be considered an asset

Work with us!

• Highly competitive salary
• Full Benefits package of Health, Dental & Vision
• Healthcare Spending Account to use on additional benefit expenses
• Lifestyle Spending Account to use on Wellness expenses such as health and fitness
• Employee Assistance Program
• Opportunity to work with a high-functioning team of professionals working on a diversified portfolio
• Proud to be named one of Manitoba’s Top Employers annually since 2011

Conditions of employment include the ability to obtain and maintain an Airport Restricted Area Identification Card (RAIC) and Transportation Security Clearance (TSC), inclusive of approval for U.S. Preclearance.

Winnipeg Airports Authority is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. We encourage all qualified applicants experiencing barriers to equity to self-identify in their application.

Accommodations are available upon request during the assessment and selection process.

#J-18808-Ljbffr