In-House Counsel

Description

About Tnemec

For more than 100 years, Tnemec has been a trusted leader in high-performance protective coatings. We take pride in our people, our process, and the products that protect critical infrastructure across the country. As we continue to modernize, expand, and position ourselves for the next century of operational excellence, we are building the internal infrastructure that will support responsible, sustainable growth.

Position Summary

Tnemec Company, Inc. is seeking a strategic and solutions-oriented In-House Counsel to serve as our primary internal legal leader.

This role is more than reviewing contracts, it is about partnering with executive leadership to proactively protect the organization, strengthen internal systems, and enable smart, compliant growth. Counsel will work closely with executive leadership to strengthen legal infrastructure, reduce enterprise risk, and support operational excellence across all U.S. facilities.

Importantly, this is an evolving and developmental role. As Tnemec continues to grow, expand facilities, enhance compliance systems, and refine corporate governance, the scope and structure of this position will continue to develop. This role will have the unique opportunity to help define and shape the in-house legal function as the Company evolves into its next 100 years of operations.

We are looking for a business-minded attorney who enjoys building systems, influencing strategy, and translating legal complexity into practical business guidance.

What You’ll Do

Commercial Contracts & Risk Mitigation

• Draft, review, and negotiate vendor, distributor, customer, and service agreements.
• Standardize contract templates and internal review processes.
• Support procurement and supply chain initiatives with sound legal protections.
• Identify and mitigate commercial risk before it becomes exposure.

Corporate Governance & Internal Controls

• Maintain corporate records and regulatory filings.
• Support governance best practices.
• Assist in developing compliance programs and reporting channels.
• Promote ethical business practices and internal accountability.

Employment Law & Workplace Compliance

• Provide guidance on employee relations matters, investigations, discipline, and terminations.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state employment laws (FLSA, FMLA, ADA, EEOC, etc.).
• Support policy development and handbook updates.
• Partner with leadership to minimize workplace risk and promote fair, compliant practices.
• Coordinate responses to agency inquiries or administrative claims.

Regulatory & Environmental Compliance

• Advise on OSHA, EPA, DOT, and hazardous materials regulations.
• Partner with EHS leaders to proactively mitigate compliance risk.
• Support plant operations in navigating inspections, audits, and regulatory requirements.
• Help strengthen safety and environmental governance frameworks.

Litigation & Outside Counsel Coordination

• Manage relationships with outside counsel.
• Assist in oversight of litigation strategy and dispute resolution.
• Monitor legal spend and ensure cost-effective external partnerships.

Growth & Strategic Support

• Provide legal review for facility expansions, land purchases, and leases.
• Support due diligence efforts related to acquisitions or strategic initiatives.
• Assist in structuring agreements that enable regional and operational growth.

Who You Are

• A trusted advisor who leads with integrity.
• Calm and confident in high-stakes situations.
• Comfortable operating independently while collaborating cross-functionally.
• A proactive thinker who builds systems not just reacts to problems.
• Someone who sees compliance not as red tape but as a strategic advantage.
• Energized by helping shape a role that grows alongside the organization.

Reporting Structure

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer

Outside counsel will continue to be utilized for highly specialized matters and complex litigation.

Why This Role Matters

This position is foundational to Tnemec’s next chapter. As we continue expanding facilities, modernizing systems, and strengthening enterprise governance, this role will help ensure we grow responsibly, ethically, and strategically.

It is an opportunity to build, influence, and define what in-house legal excellence looks like at Tnemec today and for decades to come.

Qualifications

What We’re Looking For

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Licensed and in good standing to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.
• Strong background in employment law and regulatory compliance.
• Experience in manufacturing, industrial, or multi-site environments preferred.
• Exceptional contract drafting and negotiation skills.
• A practical, business-first mindset.
• Comfort operating in a role that will expand and mature over time.