Role Overview
This position serves as the principal in-house legal advisor for a growing agribusiness enterprise. Reporting directly to leadership, the Corporate Counsel will provide comprehensive legal guidance across corporate governance, commercial transactions, regulatory compliance, employment law, and litigation oversight. The ideal candidate operates effectively as a standalone legal resource while coordinating external counsel and managing legal risk across a complex operational footprint.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the drafting, review, and negotiation of commercial contracts, including supply, distribution, manufacturing, and service agreements
- Develop standardized contract frameworks and maintain consistent legal review protocols
- Advise internal teams on risk allocation, operational feasibility, and contractual terms
- Support mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures by managing due diligence, transaction documentation, and integration planning
- Provide strategic counsel on employment matters across multiple states, including policy development, investigations, and terminations
- Oversee workers’ compensation programs, particularly in high-exposure jurisdictions
- Manage all litigation and pre-litigation activities, including selection and supervision of outside counsel
- Monitor legal spend and ensure cost-effective resolution of disputes
- Advise on regulatory compliance related to grain handling, feed production, transportation, and workplace safety
- Support internal investigations and ethics initiatives as required
- Collaborate with finance and commercial teams on credit risk, secured transactions, and UCC filings
- Coordinate with international legal advisors where cross-border matters arise
Qualifications
- JD from an accredited law school and active license in at least one U.S. state
- Minimum of 10 years of legal experience, with a mix of law firm and in-house roles
- Proven experience handling multi-state employment law issues
- Strong background in contract law, corporate transactions, and regulatory compliance
- Experience managing outside counsel and controlling legal budgets
- Ability to work independently while maintaining strong collaboration with business units
- Practical decision-making skills with a focus on business-aligned solutions
- Excellent communication abilities, with a talent for simplifying legal concepts for non-legal stakeholders
- High level of discretion, integrity, and professionalism
- Valid driver’s license for insurance compliance
Preferred Experience
- Background in agribusiness, manufacturing, commodities trading, or similar operational industries
Work Environment
This is a hybrid role with flexibility to work remotely. Occasional travel may be required. Preferred locations include Parkville (KC), MO; Boulder, CO; and Visalia, CA. The position may be structured as fully remote based on candidate needs and business requirements.
Compensation & Benefits
- Eligible for an incentive plan with a target of 20% of base compensation
