General Counsel & Strategic Legal Advisor

About Center Education GroupCenter Education Group is the parent organization of Center for Allied Health Education (CAHE), one of New York's leading healthcare education institutions. We are mission-driven and growth-oriented, committed to training the next generation of healthcare professionals with the highest standards of excellence, integrity, and innovation.Position SummaryWe are seeking a General Counsel who is more than just a legal expert - someone who can serve as a trusted strategic partner to the C-suite. This role will be deeply embedded in organizational decision-making, working closely with leadership on initiatives related to legal compliance, expansion planning, risk management, policy development, and strategic growth.You'll act as the go-to legal and operational advisor, helping guide the institution through complex regulatory landscapes, contract negotiations, accreditation requirements, and multi-state educational operations. If you thrive in dynamic environments and want a seat at the table to shape how an education institution grows, this is the role for you.Key ResponsibilitiesServe as chief legal advisor to the CEO and executive leadership on all legal matters affecting the organization.Oversee legal strategy related to corporate governance, partnerships, real estate, contracts, employment, accreditation, and regulatory issues.Lead and manage compliance with federal, state, and accreditation bodies, including Department of Education, NYSED, ABHES, and other healthcare education standards.Support institutional growth initiatives, including mergers, acquisitions, campus expansions, and program development.Draft, review, and negotiate complex contracts, MOUs, and vendor agreements.Anticipate and mitigate legal risks while creating scalable, proactive policies and practices.Serve as liaison with external counsel as needed.Collaborate with HR, Finance, and Academics to ensure consistent application of policies and institutional values.Provide legal training and guidance to staff and leadership as needed.What We're Looking ForJuris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and active license to practice law in New York.Minimum 7-10 years of experience in legal practice, preferably with exposure to education, healthcare, or nonprofit sectors.Demonstrated experience advising senior executives and participating in strategic planning and organizational leadership.Expertise in compliance, contracts, employment law, and regulatory affairs.Familiarity with postsecondary education, healthcare regulation, or accreditation processes a strong plus.Ability to balance big-picture strategy with roll-up-your-sleeves execution.Proactive, clear communicator who can simplify legal jargon and offer practical solutions.Trustworthy, discreet, and comfortable in a high-autonomy, fast-moving environment.