Senior Legal Counsel

Building the space between proven and possible, MDA Space (TSX:MDA) is a trusted mission partner to the global space industry. A robotics, satellite systems and geointelligence pioneer with a 55-year+ story of world firsts and more than 450 missions, MDA Space is a global leader in communications satellites, Earth and space observation, and space exploration and infrastructure. With 40 years of operational experience and proven performance on the iconic Canadarm programs including Space Shuttle and International Space Station robotics and operations support, our Robotics & Space Operations team has 100% mission success in making space dreams come true.

The Role:

We are looking for a Senior Legal Counsel to join the MDA Legal team. Reporting to the Associate General Counsel, in this role, you will provide legal advice and support on matters relating to mergers & acquisitions and other strategic transactions, corporate and public company governance matters, regulatory and compliance issues and commercial contracting initiatives across our Robotics & Space Operations, Satellite Systems and Geointelligence business units. At present, we are operating under a hybrid work model, with 3 days per week in office and 2 days per week remote.

Job Responsibilities:

• Provide timely guidance and risk analysis on all types of legal issues including domestic and international M&A activity, commercial contracts, corporate governance, corporate finance, intellectual property/licensing transactions, new business initiatives and corporate structuring
• Provide legal support and leadership on M&A activity, as well as other joint ventures and strategic initiatives undertaken by our business
• Review complex commercial contracts and support contract negotiations with external and internal stakeholders
• Provide legal support to the Security and Compliance team on a variety of matters including anti-corruption and third-party due diligence, export control, and safeguarding classified information
• Supervise and coordinate with external counsel where needed, including on annual public company disclosure related matters
• Provide legal support on development and implementation of MDA company templates, policies and procedures, including to further various business transformation initiatives
• Provide guidance on issues arising from actual or anticipated litigation

Job Qualifications:

• LLB or JD from an accredited law school and member in good standing of a Canadian provincial bar
• 6+ years post-call experience as a lawyer, ideally with experience both as in-house and with a top-tier law firm. Experience should be primarily focused on M&A and domestic and international commercial transactions (preferably in the aerospace, defence or high-technology sectors). Previous experience with public company disclosure requirements, transactions with government customers or working in highly-regulated industries are all considered assets
• Demonstrated ability to provide business-oriented legal advice and recommendations
• Strong communication skills, and an ability to present clear and practical legal guidance that support the achievement of business objectives
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a capacity to build strong working relationships across the organization
• Keen attention to detail, ability to work independently and as part of a team, and willingness to take ownership over all areas of support
• Strong business judgment with an understanding of when to ask for guidance or input
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to effectively manage priorities while meeting timelines
• Successful candidates must obtain and hold security clearance at the NATO Secret level, and pass security assessment for the Controlled Goods Program (CGP). 

Comments/Special Considerations:

We’re a dream team of purpose-driven, collaborative and passionate people, and we are constantly looking for others to join #TeamMDA to ignite new and innovative approaches to problem-solving that push us forward to improve life on and above Earth. If you’re excited to expand our place in space and driven to inspire the next generation, we’ll take you there.

We have entered a new era of exploration and development, and MDA welcomes all who yearn to suit up and be part of it. An equal opportunity employer prizing diversity, integrity and collaboration, we are committed to growing MDA’s and Canada’s leadership in this next golden age.

MDA Space is proud to provide accommodation(s) during the recruitment process.  Should you require any accommodations, please indicate this on your application/cover letter and we will work with you to meet your accessibility needs.

The compensation range for this position is $165,000 - $175,000 annually. The specific compensation offered will be based on the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate.