Legal Counsel, Emergency Cash & U.S. Programs
The Legal Counsel for Emergency Cash & U.S. Programs at GiveDirectly is a pivotal role focused on developing and leading legal frameworks for rapid humanitarian responses and U.S. cash programs. Approximately 70% of the role centers on Emergency Cash initiatives, encompassing preparation for future responses and managing legal and regulatory aspects during active emergencies. The remaining portion involves serving as the legal partner for GiveDirectly's U.S. programs, collaborating with various stakeholders to deliver cash assistance to low-income Americans.
Key responsibilities include building a repeatable legal model for emergency responses, drafting and negotiating essential agreements, and advising on the legal design and delivery of U.S. cash programs. The role also involves developing response-readiness tools, coordinating with country teams and local advisors, and ensuring compliance with data privacy laws. During active emergency responses, the Legal Counsel will lead the legal work required to launch and operate on emergency timelines.
Candidates should be qualified attorneys with relevant post-qualification legal experience, particularly in complex program, commercial, or regulatory matters in fast-paced environments. Strong commercial contracting skills, the ability to quickly understand unfamiliar legal frameworks, and excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential. Experience coordinating with external counsel and a working knowledge of data privacy and protection laws are also required.
Compensation includes a robust health benefits plan, flexible paid time off, and allowances for desk setup and learning and development. The role is remote, with a requirement to overlap with an East Africa timezone by at least 3 hours. Travel is expected to be approximately 3–4 trips per year, plus additional travel as needed during active emergency responses.
GiveDirectly is a nonprofit organization that has delivered over $1 billion in cash directly to more than 2 million people living in poverty across 15 countries since 2011. The organization is known for its candid, analytical, and non-hierarchical culture, supporting high ownership and real professional growth. Employees are encouraged to take flexible paid time off, and the organization offers allowances for desk setup and learning and development.