Lead Paralegal - Corporate Governance & Securities - R2416450-7478

Heidrick & Struggles - Chicago, IL

Full-time - Mid Level

Chicago, IL

Administrative and Support Services

About the position

The Lead Paralegal, Corporate Governance & Securities at Heidrick & Struggles will play a pivotal role in supporting the company's corporate governance and securities functions. This position is designed for an individual who is detail-oriented and possesses a strong understanding of corporate governance practices and SEC regulations. The Lead Paralegal will be responsible for comprehensive support of all matters relating to board of directors and committee meetings, international enterprise-wide corporate governance support, SEC filings, annual reports, and shareholder meetings. Additionally, the role will involve support on Environmental Resources Management (ERM) and other legal department functions across Heidrick's business. In this capacity, the Lead Paralegal will collaborate closely with executive management, board members, external advisors, and cross-functional teams that include Human Resources, Finance, IT, Investor Relations, Communications, Operations, and other key stakeholder groups. The successful candidate will be expected to manage multiple priorities and deadlines while ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and internal policies. This role is critical in ensuring that the company maintains high standards of corporate governance and transparency in its operations. The Lead Paralegal will also be responsible for drafting agendas, resolutions, and presentation materials for board and committee meetings, as well as maintaining accurate records and minutes. The position requires a proactive approach to managing board meeting logistics and supporting the Office of the CEO in event planning. Furthermore, the Lead Paralegal will assist in the preparation and submission of SEC filings, including Forms 3, 4, and 5, and will lead the preparation of the company's annual proxy statement. This role is essential for ensuring that the company meets its obligations to shareholders and regulatory bodies, thereby contributing to the overall governance and compliance framework of Heidrick & Struggles.

Responsibilities

• Administer board of directors and committee meetings, including drafting agendas, resolutions, and associated recordkeeping.
• Coordinate collection and distribution of materials for board and committee review via Diligent Board portal.
• Draft board and committee meeting minutes and maintain associated records.
• Liaise with Directors and Senior Management on Board meeting logistics and materials.
• Manage deadlines, calendaring, and scheduling for board meetings.
• Support D&O questionnaire and board/committee self-evaluation processes.
• Gather materials for auditor inquiries and maintain recordkeeping diligence involving board minutes and materials.
• Assist in preparing, reviewing, and submitting SEC filings for Section 16 compliance, including Forms 3, 4, and 5.
• Lead preparation of the Company's annual proxy statement, coordinating with relevant stakeholders.
• Participate in planning and coordination of the annual shareholder meeting, managing information with external counsel and other parties.
• Review and update the company's website for compliance with SEC and Nasdaq regulations.
• Coordinate with Legal Department support staff to keep internal website updated with legal policies and processes.
• Assist Chief Legal Officer with Enterprise Risk Management program and reporting to the Board on governance, ESG, and ERM matters.
• Assist with the annual Legal Department budgeting process and coordinate with outside law firms and vendors.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a paralegal or in a similar role, preferably in corporate governance or securities law.
• Strong understanding of corporate governance practices and SEC regulations.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in using legal research tools and document management systems.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with Diligent Board portal or similar board management software.
• Familiarity with Environmental Resources Management (ERM) processes.
• Knowledge of corporate finance and securities law compliance.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Dental insurance coverage
• 401k retirement savings plan
• Flexible scheduling options
• Professional development opportunities
• Paid holidays and vacation time