We are not currently accepting applications for this position.

ProPublica is seeking a deputy general counsel to join our vibrant and growing organization dedicated to investigative journalism in the public interest. The deputy general counsel will provide day-to-day legal support for the organization’s full range of activities, including legal services to its newsroom.

ProPublica’s reporting focuses on stories with the potential to spur real-world impact and has contributed to the passage of new laws; reversals of harmful policies and practices; and accountability for leaders at local, state and national levels. ProPublica has received six Pulitzer Prizes, among dozens of other awards. Since it began publishing in 2008, ProPublica has grown to more than 160 employees, with offices in New York, Washington, Chicago, Berkeley, Austin, Atlanta, and Phoenix.

The deputy general counsel will report to ProPublica’s general counsel and work closely with the organization’s editorial and business leadership.

Responsibilities

• Provide timely and thoughtful legal advice on a range of potential risks and issues facing the newsroom and the organization as a whole, including questions of defamation, intellectual property, freedom of information and records access, right of publicity and privacy, newsgathering and sourcing, as well as commercial contract review and drafting, employment issues and data protection.
• Work directly with newsroom leadership, senior editors, reporters and others, as well as business development and other managers, publishing partners, commercial vendors, business partners and other key stakeholders.
• Supervise outside counsel in litigated matters and, as time allows, conduct hands-on litigation in freedom of information/access and, possibly, routine subpoena matters and business disputes.

Qualifications

• At least three years of relevant legal experience, preferably with exposure to press law and related fields. This should include experience with litigation and direct counseling of clients.
• Familiarity with basic business contracts and intellectual property questions. Experience with issues of employment, privacy and data protection is a plus.
• Membership in the New York or D.C. bar strongly preferred.
• A deep commitment to the value of a free and inquisitive press in democratic governance, and an understanding of the key role played by investigative reporting.
• Outstanding analytic and communication (both oral and written) skills.
• The highest level of professionalism and solid judgment.
• A creative, entrepreneurial spirit with high energy, enthusiasm and a strong work ethic.

We know there may be great candidates who don’t fit into what we’ve described above or who have important skills we haven’t thought of. If that’s you, don’t hesitate to apply and tell us about yourself.

We are dedicated to improving our newsroom, in part by better reflecting the people we cover. (Here is a breakdown of our staff.) We are committed to diversity and building an inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds and ages. And we are taking steps to meet that commitment. We especially encourage applications by members of traditionally underrepresented communities, including women, people of color, LGBTQ people and people with disabilities.

The position is full-time with comprehensive benefits. Salary is competitive. The position is based in New York, although we may consider remote arrangements provided the candidate is a member of the New York or D.C. bar. Please apply via this form. We will begin reviewing applications July 16.

Applicants must be eligible to work in the U.S.

Questions? Send them to [email protected]. No phone calls, please.

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