ESOP Compliance Attorney (Employee Benefits)

Direct Counsel has partnered with an AmLaw 200 firm seeking an experienced employee benefits attorney. Candidates must have at least 8 years of practice experience.
The ideal candidate will possess the following experience and skills:

• Expertise in employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs)
• Experience counseling employee benefit plan sponsors with respect to ERISA and IRS requirements for KSOPs plans and ESOPs
• Experience in negotiating and drafting executive employment agreements and incentive plans on behalf of employers and executives
• Knowledge of employee benefits issues with an emphasis on ESOPs in the context of corporate mergers and acquisitions
• Experience reviewing merger and acquisition agreements for purposes of ESOP related review
• Ability to advise clients regarding compliance with Internal Revenue Code Sections 280G and 409A
• Exceptional work ethic, attention to detail, initiative, and motivation
• Ability to thrive in a team environment
• Strong academic credentials

• Minimum 8 years of employee benefits experience
• Licensed to practice law in Michigan
• Strong academic credentials
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Detail-oriented with a strong work ethic
• Client-facing experience and responsiveness to client needs

• Salary range: $350,000 - $475,000 annually (based on full-time schedule, experience, and qualifications)
• Bonus: Eligible for annual discretionary bonus
• Benefits: Comprehensive package including health insurance (with optional HSA/FSA), dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, 401(k), vacation, sick time, parking/public transportation allowance, and employee assistance program