Harlem Irving Companies, Inc. (also known as “HIC”) is a dynamic organization proudly celebrating over 70 years of success. Our thriving establishment continues to distinguish itself as a leading developer of award-winning retail, residential, commercial, institutional and mixed-use properties in Chicagoland and beyond. Harlem Irving Companies maintains an unwavering commitment to excellence, which has been the hallmark of Harlem Irving Companies since our inception.
As a pioneer in the evolution of the shopping center industry, and an established name in the multifamily development sector, our company has grown from building its first strip center in the 1950s to developing and managing some of the most distinguished and successful retail and residential properties in the Chicagoland market. Today, we continue to focus on the flourishing Chicago market, while expanding into other popular areas, including Minneapolis. Whether a joint venture or one of our own, Harlem Irving Companies brings a level of experience, vision and tested expertise that makes us one of the most respected names in the industry.
Position Overview
The Vice President and General Counsel serves as the chief legal advisor to the Company and a key member of the executive leadership team. This role is responsible for overseeing all legal matters related to the Company’s real estate development, acquisitions, dispositions, financing, leasing, construction, and asset management activities across retail and multifamily residential portfolios.
The General Counsel will provide strategic legal guidance to support business objectives while mitigating risk, ensuring regulatory compliance, and enhancing operational efficiency.
This is a hybrid position, requiring four days in-office and one remote day per week.
Total compensation for this role is negotiable, but expected to range from $300,000 to $450,000, including base salary and bonus.
Key Responsibilities
1. Transactional Leadership
Lead and manage all legal aspects of real estate transactions, including:
- Acquisitions and dispositions
- Joint ventures and preferred equity investments
- Debt financing (construction loans, permanent loans, mezzanine financing)
Structure and negotiate complex agreements, including:
- Purchase and Sale Agreements (PSAs)
- Operating agreements and partnership agreements
- Development agreements and management agreements
2. Development & Construction
- Advise on all phases of ground-up development and redevelopment projects
Draft and negotiate:
- Construction contracts (AIA and custom forms)
- Architect and consultant agreements
- Provide counsel on zoning, land use, entitlements, and permitting
- Manage risk related to construction defects, delays, and disputes
3. Leasing & Asset Management
- Oversee retail and multifamily leasing strategy from a legal perspective
Draft and negotiate:
- Retail leases (including anchor tenant leases and shopping center agreements)
- Multifamily leases and property management agreements
Advise asset management team on:
- Tenant disputes
- CAM reconciliations
- Lease enforcement and workouts
4. Corporate & Governance
- Serve as corporate secretary and manage governance matters
- Maintain and oversee entity structure across portfolio investments
- Advise on fiduciary duties, investor relations, and corporate policies
5. Risk Management & Compliance
- Develop and implement company-wide risk management strategies
Ensure compliance with:
- Real estate, securities, and financing laws
- Fair housing, ADA, and consumer protection laws
- Oversee insurance programs and claims management
6. Litigation & Dispute Resolution
- Manage outside counsel in litigation, arbitration, and mediation
Oversee disputes involving:
- Construction defects
- Land use and entitlement challenges
- Tenant and partnership disputes
- Develop proactive strategies to minimize litigation exposure
7. Capital Markets & Investor Relations
Support capital raising efforts, including:
- Private placements and joint venture equity
- Fund formation (if applicable)
- Review offering materials and ensure compliance with securities laws
8. Team Leadership & External Counsel Management
- Build and lead an internal legal team (as applicable)
- Select, manage, and evaluate outside counsel
- Control legal spend and improve efficiency of legal operations
Qualifications
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school
- Active bar membership in Illinois, in good standing
- 10+ years of legal experience, with significant focus on real estate
- Experience at a top law firm, in-house at a real estate developer, or retail operation
Required Expertise
Deep experience in:
- Commercial real estate transactions
- Retail leasing (shopping centers, mixed-use)
- Multifamily development and operations
Strong understanding of:
- Joint venture structures and waterfall economics
- Real estate finance and capital stacks
- Land use and entitlement processes
Key Competencies
- Strategic thinker with strong business acumen
- Ability to balance legal risk with commercial objectives
- Exceptional negotiation and drafting skills
- Executive presence and ability to advise senior leadership
- Highly organized with strong project management skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with mixed-use developments combining retail and multifamily
- Familiarity with institutional investors and fund structures
- Prior in-house General Counsel or Deputy GC experience
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary + performance-based bonus
- Comprehensive benefits package
Why Join Us
- Opportunity to shape the legal strategy of a growing real estate platform
- Exposure to high-profile development and investment projects
- Collaborative, entrepreneurial environment with direct executive impact
Industry
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