Who We Are
Simon Fraser University is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Our purpose – the essence of SFU – is to create and connect knowledge, learning and community for deeper understanding and meaningful impact. We are committed to fostering excellence, innovation, belonging and community in all that we do.
The Office of the General Counsel (OGC) has conduct over, and is accountable for, all legal matters arising at the university and for protecting the university’s legal interests. The OGC maintains operational responsibility for University Legal Counsel, Archives and Records Management, and the Policy Office.
About the Role
Reporting directly to the General Counsel, this position will provide legal and strategic advice to the university on a broad range of issues, though with a particular focus on advising university administration on matters related to litigation, administrative complaint processes, and the conduct of investigations. The Legal Counsel will apply sound judgment and legal analysis to provide constructive advice and problem solving to manage legal risk. In addition, the Legal Counsel will with work directly with academic and administrative units undertaking primarily barrister's work, with a focus on advising with respect to disputes and complaint response, the conduct of investigations, and providing legal advice informed by a wide range of practice areas including: administrative law, procedural fairness, general liability, labour and employment, human rights, privacy as well as governance and advice on university policies.
As the preferred candidate, you have at least three years of general litigation and/or complaint defense experience and providing advice on investigation processes and administrative law principles at a top‐tier firm or company, with excellent knowledge of relevant legislation and case law in this area. You must have strong business acumen and sound judgment with a focus on practical client advice relating to legal risks within a business context. Success in this position requires excellent interpersonal, communication, organizational, analytical, and problem‐solving skills.
Qualifications
LLB. Degree. and professional designation as a lawyer eligible to practice in BC (e.g., a member in good standing in The Law Society of British Columbia or eligible for membership) with eight years of related legal experience divided between private practice, postsecondary sector, industry and/or government, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
- Excellent knowledge of the laws of British Columbia and the laws of Canada applicable therein with specific emphasis on the BC University Act, the BC Financial Administration Act, the BC Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, corporate, commercial, and contract law, and international/national patent and copyright laws, administrative law, and procedural fairness.
- Ability to manage highly confidential matters where the improper release of information would be injurious or detrimental to the University.
- Ability to manage a large, complex, and diverse legal caseload.
- Excellent organizational, analytical, problem solving, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
- Ability to negotiate contractual and navigate other legal issues with internal and external stakeholders.
What We Offer
At SFU, our goal is to ensure our people are valued and supported by promoting a healthy work-life balance, professional growth and development, as well as a safe and respectful workplace. We offer temporary employees who belong in the Administrative Professional Excluded Staff group (APEX):
- 8% vacation pay
- Employer paid extended health & dental plans
- Hybrid-work program for eligible positions
Additional Information
The assignment end date is May 1, 2026.
The pay range is the span between the minimum and maximum base salary for the position. The midpoint of the range is approximately halfway between the minimum and the maximum and represents an employee that possesses full job knowledge, qualifications and experience for the position. In the normal course, employees will be hired, transferred or promoted between the minimum and midpoint of the pay range.
Please include your cover letter and resume in one attachment.
SFU is an equity employer and strongly encourages applications from all qualified individuals including women, Indigenous Peoples, visible minorities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, persons with disabilities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of the university.
We are committed to ensuring that the application and interview process is accessible to all applicants. If you require any assistance or accommodations, please contact pei_reception@sfu.ca.
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