Lead Counsel (Hybrid)

Are you interested in being part of a leading blockchain development team at Ava Labs? They specialize in deploying high-performance solutions for Web3, focusing on advancements in Avalanche technology. Founded by Cornell computer scientists and collaborating with finance experts and early Web3 innovators, Ava Labs envisions transforming how people establish permissionless networks. By embracing Web3 to unlock value creation opportunities, the company aims to facilitate digitization of global assets on a unified blockchain platform.

Ava Labs seeks a lead counsel to oversee legal, regulatory, compliance, and policy matters within the organization. You will collaborate with a skilled team, dedicated to excellence and with a sense of humor. If you are eager to contribute your expertise while delving into continuous learning opportunities, Ava Labs welcomes your application!

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute legal strategies to support Ava Labs' growth and manage risks related to the Avalanche public blockchain ecosystem
• Offer legal guidance on new and existing products/services, including compliance with securities, commodities, sanctions, and money transmission regulations, along with corporate and transactional law
• Collaborate on regulatory and legislative policies and advocacy efforts
• Handle regulatory compliance matters and implementations
• Negotiate agreements such as partnerships, investments, grants, and commercial deals
• Provide advice on legal aspects essential to tech startups, including intellectual property and employment law
• Efficiently manage external legal counsel through appropriate communication and oversight

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and admission to at least one US state bar
• 5+ years of legal expertise as a practicing attorney
• Familiarity with blockchain technology, cryptoassets, corporate law, and intellectual property law
• Background in engineering or technology is advantageous; willingness to learn about new technologies is essential
• Proactive approach and ability to collaborate across departments 
• Strong interpersonal skills necessary for engaging with internal and external stakeholders
• Proven problem-solving and communication skills 
• Resides in the NYC Metropolitan area and can work onsite part-time

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to quickly grasp new concepts and synthesize knowledge in a practical context
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and strategic thinking abilities
• Curiosity to explore new subjects and technologies, with a keen interest in shaping laws and policies in innovative ways
• Diligent, adaptable, and receptive to challenges in a vibrant work environment
• Effective communicator with the confidence to express opinions thoughtfully and persuasively
• Enthusiasm for contributing to the evolution of the internet, Web 3.0, and the metaverse
• Global perspective on business and technology impact

Salary Range: $160,000 to $200,000

Please note this compensation range is subject to variation based on experience and location factors.

Why Ava Labs?
Join a pioneering Web3 company with an exceptional team scattered across computer science, economics, finance, marketing, and legal domains. With locations in New York City and Miami, Ava Labs is deeply committed to revolutionizing the world of finance and decentralized applications. Backed by prominent investors like Andreessen Horowitz, Initialized Capital, and Polychain Capital, as well as angel investors Balaji Srinivasan and Naval Ravikant, the company offers a unique opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology set to impact diverse sectors including finance, gaming, and collectibles, among others.

Ava Labs fosters workplace diversity and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Hiring is based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, parental status, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, or any other protected status under local, state, or federal laws.