Legal Affairs Director (Government Relations Administrator 1)

About This Role

Serve as the Legal Affairs Director, advising the Oregon Health Authority on legal risk management and providing strategic legal counsel. Lead the legal affairs department, coordinate litigation, and guide policy and legislative initiatives to ensure legal compliance and effectiveness.

Responsibilities

• Ensure effective identification, mitigation, and management of legal risk within the organization
• Provide proactive legal risk management and strategic legal counsel
• Identify and address legal issues early to prevent litigation, operational delays, and unnecessary costs
• Provide leadership and oversight of the legal affairs department
• Manage and provide subject-matter leadership for all Legal Affairs units
• Ensure legal accuracy, consistency, and effectiveness across the hospital
• Coordinate and manage OSH’s legal activities related to lawsuits, tort claims, and other legal actions
• Draft, analyze, and implement Oregon Administrative Rules, legislation, and policy changes impacting OSH
• Serve as a primary educator on legal and forensic issues for OSH staff and external partners
• Participate in strategic planning, high-level decision-making, and cross-agency coordination

Requirements

• Five years of management experience OR two years of management experience and a bachelor's degree in a related field
• Must hold a Juris Doctor degree
• Member of the Oregon State Bar

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor degree
• Five years of management experience; OR two years of management experience and a bachelor's degree in a related field

Nice to Have

• Expert knowledge of mental health law and the statutes and rules governing OHA and DHS
• Experience in legal analysis, communication, relationship-building, and leadership skills
• Strong professional reputation within Oregon’s legal and mental health communities

Benefits