Senior Counsel, Higher Education Regulatory & Accreditation — Austin

Senior counsel role advising colleges, universities, and education providers on federal and accreditation compliance, including Title IV financial aid, institutional accreditation issues, and structural changes such as changes in ownership. The position supports transactional and regulatory work across the higher-education sector and contributes to practice knowledge and client guidance.

This position may be based in multiple U.S. offices or a virtual/remote office and offers a flexible schedule with the possibility of a reduced billable-hour expectation. The role involves client-facing advisory work, project management, supervising junior attorneys and paralegals, and occasional travel for client meetings and conferences.

The hiring team seeks a collaborative, entrepreneurial lawyer with strong judgment, excellent writing and communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple matters under pressure. Candidates should hold (or be willing to obtain) an active state bar license for the office location.

• At least 8 years of post-qualification experience preferred, including ~3 years focused on higher education regulatory matters
• Demonstrated experience with Title IV, accreditation, and institutional structural changes/changes in ownership (including M&A aspects)
• Experience working with regulatory agencies, accrediting bodies, or in-house at educational institutions is strongly preferred
• Familiarity with related areas such as privacy law, research/healthcare compliance, student funding mechanisms, or international/foreign school operations is a plus
• Strong project management, client communication, and supervisory experience; excellent legal writing and judgment
• Active bar license in the applicable state or commitment to obtain one promptly