County Counsel

The Opportunity
The County Counsel serves as a leader and advisor for the County in partnership with the County Commissioners, independently elected officials, County Administrator and department directors. They provide public policy and legal advice to elected officials, county management and affiliated agencies and within broad objectives established by
the Board of County Commissioners, the County Counsel develops and implements goals, objectives, policies and priorities. This position provides an outstanding opportunity to address the most complex legal challenges and novel cases, work closely with elected and appointed policy officials and lead a team of dedicated professionals.

As a member of the County's Executive Management Team, the County Counsel supports the facilitation of high quality, effective service delivery in all County programs and effectively partners to develop innovative solutions. The County Counsel routinely advises County departments on appropriate action for a variety of legal problems and
issues, particularly those involving county-wide policies or politically sensitive issues. They assist in creating a positive and supportive work environment countywide and actively promote the organizational values of equity, diversity and inclusion.

A highly effective leader, the County Counsel manages the Office of the County Counsel with responsibility for hiring, directing and evaluating staff that provide quality service internally to departments and the Board of Commissioners. The County Counsel develops and implements the office strategic plan and collaborates with staff to establish annual work plans with identified goals, objectives and measurable outcomes. The County Counsel develops annual and supplemental budgets for the Office of County Counsel and actively monitors revenues and expenditures. This position also presents budget proposals to the Budget Committee and the Board of County Commissioners.

The County Counsel provides or oversees legal representation in all civil matters on behalf of the County and prosecutes, defends and appeals legal actions, suits and other proceedings. This position reviews and analyzes court decisions and pending legislation and directs the research and preparation of legal opinions, memoranda, ordinances, resolutions, contracts, agreements, deeds and other legal documents. Representing the County in court, the County Counsel prepares and presents cases at trials or hearings and can effectively evaluate and negotiate out of court
settlements.

The County Counsel reviews and interprets Federal, State and local legislation, statutes, rules and regulations and makes recommendations on proposed policy or procedural changes. This position also directs the preparation and analysis of proposed state and federal legislation affecting County operations. The County Counsel attends public
meetings and work sessions advising on legal rights and responsibilities and other legal issues. They also approve the legal form of all official ordinances, orders and actions of the Commissioners. With an equity focus, this position assists in the full implementation of civil rights laws and the Americans with Disabilities Act, assuring best practices of investigation and tracking of client and employee discrimination and harassment complaints and advises on appropriate strategies for mitigating systemic racism and the promotion of racial equity via the development of department, division and county-wide policies, procedures, programs and business practices

The Priorities
* Quickly develop and maintain positive and productive relationships with the Board of County Commissioners. Establish trust, ensure effective communication and proactively provide sound legal advice.
* Establish collaborative working relationships throughout the organization. Become a dedicated thought partner to the County Administrator, effectively collaborate with department directors and work in partnership to achieve Board priorities and strategic County initiatives.
* Develop an understanding of the One Washington County model and the Design the Future initiative. Assume a leadership role in implementing legal and business matters that support a more equitable, responsive and strategically collaborative organization.
* Continue to modernize and improve the Office of the County Counsel. Review the current structure and consider best practices to ensure the Office effectively meets the growing needs of the County.
* Identify and articulate technology and system needs to effectively leverage data and increase efficiency in support of performance excellence.
* Quickly come up to speed on the current work of the Office. Actively discuss cases, develop strategies as needed and successfully partner with the staff to provide sound legal advice on ongoing initiatives.
* Demonstrate a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) as a key organizational value. Support the County's ongoing EDI initiative to deliver equitable outcomes throughout the County's programs, budgets, decision-making and service delivery.

Qualifications
A Juris Doctor from an accredited college or university and at least ten years of increasingly responsible legal experience, with an emphasis on government law, is required. A successful track record as a City or County Attorney, Deputy Attorney or experience in a private law firm advising public sector clients is ideal. Direct leadership experience managing professional and paraprofessional legal personnel is essential. Knowledge of the principles and practices
of municipal law, litigation, civil rights and labor relations law is required, as is expertise in successful negotiation, mediation and conflict resolution. A member in good standing with the Oregon State Bar or the ability to obtain membership within 30 days is required.
A strong understanding of municipal governance and political processes is essential. Federal, State and local statutes, regulations, rules and ordinances applicable to County activities and functions, including municipal liability, public meetings, torts, land use, public records and public financing, is required. Knowledge of civil trial and appellate procedures in state and federal courts and administrative tribunals is ideal.

How to Apply
Washington County values a culture of equity, diverse perspectives and life experiences. The organization embraces innovation, collaboration and work-life harmony, offering job stability and an opportunity to serve and support the growing, diverse community. Washington County is an equal-opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity and an inclusive workforce. Women, minorities, veterans and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at jobs.crelate.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position is open until filled with the first review on September 8, 2024.

Questions
Please direct questions to Heather Gantz at hgantz@raftelis.com or 503-860-1111.