We are a high-impact global venture philanthropy, working to catalyze the rapid transition to a clean energy future. We believe that philanthropy plays a key role in fostering new climate solutions, supporting a vibrant and growing civil society, and promoting objective research and analysis for use by governments and key partners.

About the role

The Growald Climate Fund is seeking a part-time General Counsel to serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO, leadership team and Board of Directors. This role will be responsible for providing guidance in resolving legal issues in the areas of corporate governance, IRS compliance, grant making activity, risk management, contract management and human resources.

The right candidate is intelligent and strategic, balancing risk and compliance, while playing a key problem-solving role in the organization. We are a small foundation with a global grantmaking portfolio. To date, we have resolved legal issues internally with support from external counsel. The scale and complexity of our operations has reached the point where there is a need for an in-house consultant who deeply understands the inner workings of our business.

This role ensures sound governance, legal integrity and risk management while supporting the Foundation’s mission and values ​​across its global grant portfolio.

Position responsibilities include:

Legal oversight and compliance

Advise leadership and the Board of Directors on corporate governance, regulations, fiduciary duties, and conflicts of interest.

Ensures compliance with IRS regulations for tax-exempt organizations, grant-making rules, and counterterrorism/Office of Foreign Assets Control requirements for cross-border grants.

Monitor and interpret local and international laws affecting non-profit operations.

Supervising contract drafting, negotiation and administration for consultants, vendors, beneficiaries and partners.

Risk management and policy development

Develop and maintain a risk management framework, including review of insurance coverage (e.g. directors and directors liability).

Provide guidance on employment-related legal matters and/or consult external counsel when necessary.

Support data privacy and security practices as needed.

Intellectual property and communications

Overseeing intellectual property matters, including trademarks, copyrights, and licensing agreements.

Translating complex legal concepts into clear guidance for employees, beneficiaries and partners.

Collaboration and reporting

Report to the Chief of Staff (and liaise with the CEO, senior leadership team and/or Board where appropriate).

Coordinate with and manage external counsel as needed for specialized matters.

Ensure that legal strategies align with the organization’s values, including commitments to equality, inclusion, and climate justice.

Qualifications and experience

Strong understanding of common nonprofit law and tax regulations related to tax-exempt organizations.

Juris Doctor degree and 3-5 years of proven experience in non-profit contract management, risk management, or compliance officer roles.

Active membership in good standing with a state or national bar association is preferred, although not strictly required if you bring equivalent experience.

Comfortable collaborating with external counsel, discovering potential risks, and guiding a small team through regulatory and contractual questions.

A clear, thoughtful communicator who can translate legal considerations into practical, solutions-focused advice to support our mission.

Exceptional drafting, analytical, critical thinking and problem solving skills, with attention to detail.

Experience with cross-border legal considerations and global grant-making compliance is preferred

Strong leadership skills, interpersonal skills, communication skills, critical thinking skills, and appreciation are required.

Additional details

Reports to: Chief of Staff

FTE: 40-50% (part-time), with flexibility to respond to urgent matters.

Location: Boston or remote; Occasional in-person meetings may be required

Compensation: Competitive; Commensurate with the experience and market rates of a part-time nonprofit legal consultant.

Equal opportunity employer

As an equal opportunity employer, we recognize the power of a diverse community and strongly encourage applications from individuals with diverse experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants regardless of age, disability, race, gender, gender identity, marital status, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status. Must be licensed to operate legally in the United States.

To apply

To apply, click “Apply to this Job” and please send your CV and brief cover letter answering the following prompts: 1) Why do you want to become General Counsel for a global climate organization? and 2) How will you apply your prior experience to solve complex problems?