Legal Counsel (First In-House Hire)
A fast-growing media organization is seeking its first in-house attorney to build and lead the companys legal function. The ideal candidate has experience supporting early-stage or scaling startups - preferably within media, journalism, or publishing - and is comfortable operating in a dynamic, high-growth environment. This role reports to the CFO and will play a pivotal part in shaping legal operations as the company continues its expansion.
Key Responsibilities
Draft, review, and negotiate vendor contracts (U.S. and Middle East), including those related to journalism conferences and live events
Advise on media law, First Amendment issues, HR matters, pro-temp licensing, and general corporate contracting
Operate effectively in a fast-paced, low-ego, high-accountability environment
Help shape and eventually build out the legal team as the company grows
Candidate Profile
U.S. work authorization, J.D. from Top 25 U.S. law school and New York Bar membership (or ability to waive in/reactivate).
Experience supporting startupseither in-house or as outside counsel for media or media-adjacent companies
Strong familiarity with First Amendment, defamation law, IP and privacy law and other media-law-related considerations.
510+ years of experience preferred, though more senior candidates will be considered
Bright, polished, and agile; able to succeed in managed chaos
Highly collaborative with a strong teamwork orientation
Strong preference for experience managing live events.
Compensation & Benefits
Base salary: $225K$265K
20% bonus or more
Medical, HSA, dental, parental leave, unlimited PTO
401(k) available (no current employer match)
Work Environment
In-office (NYC) MondayThursday and remote work on Fridays
Fast-moving, highly collaborative culture
Profitable, and growing quickly
Start Timeline
Ideal start in early Q1, with flexibility for earlier onboarding
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply if they are excited by the opportunity to build an in-house legal function from the ground up in a mission-driven media environment and if they meet the basic qualifications.