Lead Counsel

Placers is partnering with a highly respected, innovation-driven global manufacturer to identify an experienced Lead Counsel for a temporary engagement supporting a diverse portfolio of specialty businesses. This is a unique opportunity to operate as a strategic legal advisor across multiple technical and regulated markets, including energy, life sciences, advanced materials, and branded products.

In this role, you will work directly with senior leadership to translate business strategy into practical legal guidance, helping teams navigate complex commercial, intellectual property, and regulatory landscapes while enabling growth and innovation.

• Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leaders across multiple global business units
• Shape growth and market-expansion strategies through integrated legal guidance
• Lead complex commercial contracting strategy, deal structures, and negotiations
• Align intellectual property strategy with innovation and competitive positioning
• Provide counsel across regulatory, trade, sustainability, and data privacy considerations
• Balance risk with business opportunity in highly technical, regulated environments
• Partner cross-functionally with commercial, R&D, and operations leaders
• Coordinate with internal legal colleagues and external counsel to deliver consistent, business-focused solutions
• Improve legal processes using continuous-improvement and scalable frameworks

• J.D. with active U.S. bar membership and ability to operate as in-house counsel
• 10+ years of progressive legal experience in commercial, IP, regulatory, or related matters
• Experience supporting global, multi-business organizations
• Strong business acumen and ability to enable growth through practical legal judgment
• Demonstrated credibility advising senior leadership
• Ability to prioritize high-impact work in fast-moving environments
• Excellent communication skills — able to translate complex legal concepts into clear business guidance
• Comfort working in ambiguity and navigating novel legal challenges
• Ability to travel ~10% (including international)

• Exposure to technical or regulated industries (e.g., energy, life sciences, medical devices, advanced manufacturing, or consumer products)
• Strength in commercial contracting with complementary IP and/or regulatory experience
• Continuous‑improvement mindset and experience simplifying processes

Hybrid schedule based near Elkton, Maryland (approximately four days onsite per week).