Senior Counsel, Corporate Governance at RWJBarnabas Health – West Orange, New Jersey

Senior Counsel – Corporate Governance

Job Overview:

RWJBarnabas Health, the largest and most comprehensive health care system in New Jersey, is seeking an experienced attorney to join its Office of the General Counsel as AVP, Senior Counsel for Corporate Governance. This full-time, hybrid role is a key legal and strategic advisor responsible for supporting the organization’s governance structure, regulatory compliance, and interaction with executive leadership and external governmental entities.

The AVP will work closely with the Board of Trustees, System executives (including the Chief of Staff and Chief Executive Officer), and the Government Affairs Department. The role involves managing complex governance matters, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and supporting the highest standards of transparency and accountability throughout the health system.

Reports to:

• The Senior Counsel, Corporate Governance will report directly to the Vice President, Corporate Governance.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school required
• Admission to practice law in the State of New Jersey or ability to obtain in-house counsel license in NJ
• Minimum of 7–10 years of relevant legal experience, preferably in health care, not-for-profit, or corporate governance
• Experience advising or working with boards of directors, trustees, and government officials and entities
• Familiarity with New Jersey nonprofit and health care regulatory frameworks preferred
• Deep understanding of corporate governance principles and legal requirements
• Exceptional writing, analytical, and interpersonal skills
• Proven ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset with ability to work effectively across multiple stakeholders

Essential Functions:

• Draft, review, and maintain corporate bylaws, charters, policies, and governance-related documentation for RWJBarnabas Health and its affiliated entities
• Provide strategic legal counsel and support on corporate governance best practices and regulatory matters
• Attend and provide legal support for Board of Trustees and Board Committee meetings, including preparation of agendas, minutes, resolutions, and other related materials
• Collaborate with the VP of Corporate Governance in advising senior leadership on governance strategy and execution
• Oversee governmental and regulatory matters impacting the organization, in collaboration with the Government Affairs Department
• Support initiatives related to Board education, orientation, and evaluation
• Monitor and interpret developments in laws, regulations, and industry standards related to corporate governance and not-for-profit health systems
• Provide leadership and mentorship to junior legal staff and participate in cross-functional projects and strategic initiatives
• Assist with corporate entity management and compliance with filing requirements and governance obligations

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.