Vice President, Business Affairs (Legal) - Major League Soccer

This position will partner with and provide legal counsel to the sponsorship, consumer products, marketing and club performance teams within Major League Soccer and its member clubs. 

• Provide legal advice for the League’s partnership marketing, brand alliance, consumer products and marketing teams
• Structure, draft and negotiate sponsorship, licensing, agency and other commercial agreements
• Partner with the League’s club performance team to advise MLS member clubs on commercial opportunities and sponsorships
• Draft, manage and interpret policies related to MLS member club commercial opportunities and ensure consistent application of those policies
• Manage team of legal professionals to facilitate efficient project allocation
• Provide coaching to accelerate growth of team members
• Work cross-functionally to manage risks, while providing practical and creative legal guidance
• Lead and perform special projects and other assignments as requested

• 12+ years of experience at a top tier law firm and/or corporate legal department; in-house experience with sports, entertainment or consumer products brand preferred
• Bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor
• Admission to NY State Bar

Required Skills

• Ability to make timely, nuanced recommendations for business decisions based on reasoned legal analysis and the strategic objectives of the organization
• Commercial approach to advising business teams
• Outstanding written and oral business communication skills
• Strong drafting and negotiating skills, including experience with commercial transactions
• Ability to manage a team and provide attention to career development of team members
• Superior organization, project management skills and attention to detail, necessary to support and advise business units and ensure projects are completed in a timely and effective manner
• High level of commitment to quality work product and organizational ethics, integrity and compliance
• Ability to work effectively in a fast paced, team environment

Desired Skills

• Spanish and/or French language skills (business proficiency)
• Knowledge and interest in the sport of soccer

Total Rewards

Starting Base Salary $200,000 to $250,000.   MLS/SUM base salaries are contingent upon several factors including individual qualifications, market financials, and operational business needs.

We are committed to providing a Total Rewards package that attracts, supports, engages, and retains talent through the following:

Benefits – comprehensive and competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits, as well as a suite of programs to promote well-being including a $500 Wellness Reimbursement. A generous PTO offering, and hybrid Office/Remote Work Schedule are also offered to promote Work-Life balance.

Career & Professional Development – on the job training, feedback, and on-going educational opportunities to continue your personal and professional development.

Employee Engagement – office perks, discounts and employee events that go “beyond the traditional paycheck” to make you feel a part of the team and inspire you to elevate the Game!

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.