Corporate Counsel, Real Estate

Surlamer Investments is a private investment firm based in Newport Beach with a growing portfolio across real estate, private equity, and affiliated operating businesses. We operate with an institutional structure while maintaining agility and a hands-on approach across our ventures.

We are seeking a Corporate Counsel to take a hands-on role supporting legal matters across the firm’s real estate assets, operating companies, and investment activities. This role works closely with leadership on day-to-day legal needs, transaction support, and operational needs across a multi-entity platform.

This is an execution-driven role suited for someone comfortable working across a wide range of matters and stepping in wherever needed.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide legal support on real estate transactions, investment activities, and business operations
• Draft and review corporate governance documents, partnership agreements, purchase and sale agreements, NDAs, and lease-related documents
• Manage or coordinate outside counsel on litigation, employment, or regulatory matters
• Support HR compliance and employment-related legal questions across operating companies
• Advise on tenant matters, including drafting notices and handling lease enforcement procedures
• Participate in legal due diligence for acquisitions, joint ventures, and new business initiatives
• Maintain compliance documentation and safeguard intellectual property and trade secrets
• Ensure proper management of entity formation and corporate records
• Assist in special projects and strategic initiatives as needed by executive leadership

Qualifications:

• J.D. from a top-tier law school; active member of the California Bar

• At least 4 years of experience with direct exposure to real estate transactions and operations required

• Strong drafting and negotiation skills across real estate and commercial agreements

• Ability to operate independently and handle a broad range of legal matters

• Practical, business-oriented mindset with sound judgment

• Experience working in lean teams or fast-paced environments preferred

• Willingness to take a hands-on approach and engage across all aspects of the business

Benefits:

• Base Salary: $200,000
• Discretionary performance-based bonus
• Health and dental insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match