Director, Corporate Law

Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry counties. The agency connects communities across Northeastern Illinois by delivering safe, reliable, and efficient commuter rail service that supports the region's economic and environmental vitality.

About the Law Department

Metra's Law Department, led by the General Counsel who reports to the Board of Directors and CEO, provides legal counsel to the Board, executive leadership, and all agency departments. The department is organized into three core teams: Governance & Team Support, Corporate & Regulatory, and Litigation & Risk Management. The Ethics Officer is also part of the department.

The team is focused on proactively identifying and addressing legal and compliance risks in alignment with Metra's mission of delivering safe, efficient, and affordable transportation services.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Deputy General Counsel, the Director, Corporate Law leads the Corporate Law function and oversees the delivery of legal services related to corporate governance, procurement, contracting, compliance, public records, and other public-sector legal matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Corporate Law function, ensuring effective delivery of legal services across governance, procurement, contracts, compliance, grants, and regulatory matters.
• Serve as a trusted legal advisor to executive leadership and internal stakeholders, providing strategic guidance aligned with organizational priorities.
• Oversee procurement and contracting activities, including drafting, negotiating, and interpreting complex agreements while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and funding requirements.
• Direct compliance with the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Open Meetings Act (OMA), including managing responses, advising on exemptions, and ensuring adherence to statutory timelines.
• Conduct legal research and analysis to assess legal and operational risks and recommend appropriate courses of action.
• Manage outside counsel and oversee legal expenditures in alignment with approved budgets.
• Perform additional duties as needed to support the evolving needs of the organization.
• The final salary will depend on the candidate's qualifications. Those with 8 years or more of required experience can expect offers up to the midpoint of the salary range. Metra provides full pay ranges so candidates can consider their growth potential.

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Qualified veterans who meet the minimum requirements will receive outreach during the recruitment process in accordance with Federal and State laws, including the Illinois Veterans Preference Act. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview or job offer. The most qualified candidate will be selected.

Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.