Counsel Business & Legal Affairs

About the Role

Day-to-day, this role involves working closely with various departments, including production, technology, and finance, to provide legal guidance and support. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in media and production law, as well as experience in negotiating and drafting complex agreements related to technology, SaaS, and digital infrastructure. The ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and maintain a keen eye for detail is essential.

MLB Network is a leading sports media company, and this role offers the chance to be part of a team that is at the forefront of sports broadcasting and digital media. The company values innovation, teamwork, and excellence, and the Counsel, Business & Legal Affairs will play a key role in ensuring that the network's operations are legally sound and strategically advantageous.

What You Will Do

• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide variety of technology and commercial agreements, including SaaS agreements, cloud services agreements, and software development agreements.
• Provide legal support for business operations and content production, including drafting and negotiating services agreements, transmission-related agreements, and talent/services agreements.
• Advise on legal matters related to data privacy, cybersecurity, AI/automation tools, IP ownership, and open-source use.
• Develop and maintain contract templates and playbooks to streamline technology and other contracting processes.
• Partner with cross-functional teams, including production technology, engineering, IT, product, procurement, and finance, to support studio and remote production operations.
• Manage risk and ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
• Collaborate with external counsel as needed to ensure that the network's legal interests are protected.
• Stay updated on legal developments and trends in media, technology, and digital law, applying this knowledge to improve the network's legal strategies and operations.
• Participate in strategic planning and decision-making processes, providing legal insights and guidance.

What We Are Looking For

• A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to practice law in the relevant jurisdiction.
• At least 5 years of experience in a legal role, with a focus on media, technology, or digital law.
• Strong negotiation and drafting skills, with the ability to craft complex agreements.
• Experience in managing and advising on technology transactions, including SaaS, cloud services, and software development agreements.
• Knowledge of data privacy laws, cybersecurity principles, and intellectual property rights.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects.
• Familiarity with contract management systems and tools.

Nice to Have

• Experience working in a media or sports industry environment.
• Certification in privacy law or a related field.
• Knowledge of cloud computing platforms and software development methodologies.
• Experience with agile project management principles.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work with a leading sports media company.
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Access to the latest technology and tools.
• Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options.
• Comprehensive health insurance and wellness programs.
• Generous paid time off and holiday policy.

• When applying, ensure your resume and cover letter highlight your experience in media, technology, or digital law, as well as your negotiation and drafting skills.
• Develop a portfolio that showcases your ability to navigate complex legal agreements and technology transactions.
• Prepare to discuss your understanding of current legal trends in media and technology, and how you stay updated on these developments.
• Be ready to provide specific examples of times when you had to manage risk, ensure compliance, and advise on legal matters in a fast-paced environment.
• Consider reaching out to your network for insights into MLB Network's culture and what the company values in its legal team members.
• When negotiating salary, be prepared to discuss your expectations based on industry standards and your level of experience.
• Look for red flags such as a lack of transparency about the role, unrealistic expectations, or unclear communication about the company's vision and values.