Vice President, Counsel

Job Description Summary

For over forty years, HarbourVest has been home to a committed team of professionals with an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to deliver impactful solutions to our clients and investing partners. As our global firm grows, we continue to add individuals who seek a collaborative, open-door culture that values diversity and innovative thinking.

In our collegial environment that is marked by low turnover and high energy, you will be inspired to grow and thrive. Here, you will be encouraged to build on your strengths and acquire new skills and experiences.

We are committed to fostering an environment of inclusion that promotes mutual respect among all employees. Understanding and valuing these differences optimizes the potential of both the individual and the firm.

HarbourVest is an equal opportunity employer.

This position will be a hybrid work arrangement, which translates to 3 days minimum per week in the office.

The ideal candidate is someone who has:

• Extensive experience in assisting with the formation, maintenance, and oversight of Registered Investment Companies and evergreen commingled funds offered to the Wealth channel.
• Firsthand knowledge of the securities laws, rules and regulations applicable to Registered Investment Advisers, Registered Investment Companies, and private fund offerings, including the Investment Adviser Act of 1940, Investment Company Act of 1940, Securities Act of 1933, and Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
• Experience with the formation and offering of private funds, including negotiation of all fund related documents. Knowledge of fund investment process and documentation.
• Experience supporting a board of trustees of a Registered Investment Company, including creation and presentation of board materials.
• Experience with side-by-side investing in the context of Registered Investment Companies alongside private funds and accounts pursuant to a Co-Investment Exemptive Application.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication and presentation skills (eloquent and influential), including the ability to communicate sophisticated technical and legal issues in everyday terms.
• Strategic problem solver with a cross-functional perspective, who can effectively achieve goals. Pro-active, upbeat, and self-assured professional with high personal integrity and the ability to build effective relationships with collaborators.
• Enthusiasm for the firm's mission and for its diverse and inclusive culture.
• A valued colleague, who works collaboratively and supportively with others!

What you will do:

• Actively support product development, distribution, and governance of Wealth-focused products in the US and serve as a trusted resource and adviser to investment teams, investor relations, and all internal control functions across all aspects of the company’s business. Exercise good judgment in elevating matters to the SVP, Registered Funds Counsel, and other senior executives, as appropriate.
• Draft and negotiate disclosure documents, service provider contracts, distribution agreements, and a variety of management company contracts. Work closely with and be responsible for outside counsel.
• Proactively collaborate with Legal and Compliance colleagues daily.
• Strengthen and support corporate governance for registered investment companies and new US based evergreen commingled fund formations. Own the production of quarterly board meetings, including content creation and presentation of materials.
• Analyze the impacts of changing US laws, rules, and regulations on the company and its funds.
• Collaborate with the Strategy Innovation and Execution group in advising on the development and implementation of new product offerings.
• And other responsibilities as required.

What you bring:

• At least 6-10+ years of legal experience gained through a major law firm, or a combination of major law firm and in-house experience.
• Considerable experience and in-depth knowledge of registered investment companies and new evergreen commingled fund formations, disclosure documentation, offering process, governance and US financial regulations.
• Understanding of business strategy to provide legal services, including risk assessment and creative problem solving, and broad legal and business advice to facilitate those objectives consistent with compliance with applicable laws.

Education Preferred

• Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent experience

Experience

• 6-10+ Years of proven experience

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