United Soccer League

Job Title: Contracts Manager / Paralegal

Position Type: Full Time

Location: Tampa, FL (USL Headquarters)

Overview of the United Soccer League (USL)

The United Soccer League (USL) is shaping the future of soccer in America. We are the nation’s largest and fastest-growing professional soccer organization, bringing the world’s game to more and more communities across the United States and Canada. Based in Tampa, Fla., the USL oversees multiple professional and elite pre-professional leagues, including the USL Championship, USL Super League, USL League One, USL League Two, USL W League, USL Academy, and Super Y League.

We are authentic to the spirit of the game, honoring the dedication of the players, the passion of the supporters, and the culture of the clubs. We believe in the power of soccer to unite people, provide unique life experiences, and have a meaningful impact in local communities. We work as a team, challenge the status quo, and strive to make everyone feel welcome.

United Soccer League is the proud recipient of Front Office Sports' 2021 & 2022 Best Employers in Sports and Tampa Bay Business Journal's Coolest Office Spaces.

Position Purpose

The Contracts Manager / Paralegal supports the General Counsel and Associate General Counsel in all legal matters; including drafting and negotiating certain business agreements and by tracking all agreements company-wide. The Contracts Manager / Paralegal will also be primarily responsible for franchise disclosures and state fillings. The Contracts Manager / Paralegal will provide additional, essential support to the Legal Department.

Duties and Responsibilities

Specific duties include, but are not limited to:

Assist the General Counsel and Associate General Counsel in support of all legal matters, including transactions and litigation.
Manage overall workflow for the Legal Department.
Track status of various contracts and documents, and prompt internal departments regarding status.
Serve as custodian of all executed contracts, policies, and other legal documents.
Review incoming documents/agreements.
Input deal components into Contract Management Software.
Draft basic amendments and other legal documents (e.g., Non-Disclosure Agreements, Consent Letters, Consulting Agreements) with oversight of attorneys.
Review and assist with structuring various contracts including but not limited to sponsorship agreements, trade agreements, and various marketing, vendor, and services agreements.
Review sponsorship, trade, broadcasting, and various other team agreements to ensure they comply with USL rules.
Manage a portfolio of intellectual property.
Draft contest and promotion rules.
Draft waivers and releases for various events, activations, and promotions.
Analyze various operational policies and procedures with respect to best practices. Draft executive summaries, reports, and policies based on findings.
Primarily responsible for Franchise Disclosure Document renewals by maintaining and compiling relevant documents, completing applications, and other tasks as necessary.
Keep abreast of legislative changes that may affect the company and provide factual and legal research on key issues.
Manage various legal projects and deadlines as liaison to internal departments.
Prepare correspondence to teams.
Track calendar objectives and tickler updates (including tracking of daily agenda items, as well as Franchise Agreement renewals and defaults).
Assist with preparing, sorting, and mailing legal documents.
Perform other general legal and administrative responsibilities as requested.
Other duties/responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related discipline, or equivalent experience/combined education.
Paralegal Certification highly preferred.
3-5 years of legal or contracts management experience required.
2+ years of franchise agreement experience highly preferred.
Transactional, in-house experience highly preferred, especially if related to sports or entertainment.
Previous experience with Contract Management Software highly preferred (e.g. Novatus).
Excellent communication, writing and proofreading abilities required.
Must be detail-oriented, highly organized, and proactive.
Ability to handle multiple assignments and deadlines with accuracy.
Ability to multi-task and handle tasks in a calm, professional, and thorough manner.
Maintain confidentiality and use the utmost discretion when privy to sensitive information.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively interact with team members, executives, member clubs, and external partners.
Ability to work independently in a multi-faceted, fast, fluid, and deadline-driven environment.
Positive attitude and strong work ethic a must.
Ability to work as business needs require which may include long days, evenings, weekends, occasional holidays, and travel if/when necessary.
Must have U.S. work authorization.

We have great Perks - Comprehensive Benefits Package • Medical, Dental, Vision & Pet Insurance • Health HSA and FSA • 401k • Corporate Discounts • Paid Vacation, Holiday & Sick Days • Business Casual Dress • Casual Dress Fridays • And More!

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.