Legal Counsel (Contract)

Are you looking for a position where you make a difference in our communities? At the Municipal Insurance Association of British Columbia (MIABC) we invest in the communities of British Columbia, so that they can invest in themselves. Each day, through every piece of advice shared, every outreach program offered, and every insurance policy written, our organization proudly declares that what makes each community unique is worthwhile, empowering the communities at the very heart of our province and the people who are the heart of those communities.

The MIABC is looking for an energetic and organized Legal Counsel to join our claims and legal team for a one-year contract to cover a leave of absence. The MIABC is a member-owned non-profit insurance reciprocal that provides liability coverage to over 168 local governments in British Columbia, and property and ancillary coverage to over half of our members.

Job Summary:

Defends a wide variety of claims brought against member local governments. Handles all aspects of claims from early investigation through trial.

Job Functions:

• Gathers and assesses all necessary information and evidence during the investigation of a claim.
• Co-ordinates and communicates with, advises, and instructs adjusters, members, and experts.
• Prepares pleadings, legal opinions, and reports.
• Analyzes and sets reserves.
• Prepares for conducting examinations for discoveries, chambers applications, settlement conferences, hearings, and mediations.
• Negotiates fair settlements when practical.
• Prepares for and conducts trials at all levels of court.
• Follows MIABC policies and procedures.
• Cooperates and collaborates with other employees and members in a spirit of teamwork and collegiality.
• Maintains abreast of relevant legislation to MIABC members through continuing education, and review of legal publications, etc.
• Promotes and represents MIABC as a professional association, including attending MIABC, member, or industry events and conferences, etc.
• Occasionally prepares and delivers educational seminars for members on legal issues through webinars, regional seminars, and conference sessions.
• Participates in the MIABC's internal enterprise risk management program.
• Other miscellaneous duties and special projects as assigned.

Position Qualifications:

• Seeking candidates with 3-7 years of litigation experience; however, applicants with other levels of relevant experience may be considered.
• A license to practice law in British Columbia, either as a practicing member of or eligible for membership with the Law Society of BC.
• A high degree of integrity and ethical behavior.
• A demonstrated commitment to client and member service.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills both in public and private settings, including superior public speaking and writing skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• The ability to work efficiently independently as well as part of a team.
• The ability to handle pressure in a time-constrained environment, including the ability to prioritize and manage multiple matters and deadlines.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office 365 programs, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Our Commitment to You

The MIABC believes in a culture rooted in collaboration and growth. Our team is enthusiastic, innovative, diverse, and driven to enrich the lives of our members and each other. We promise to support you and provide you with meaningful challenges and opportunities to shine. From competitive salaries, benefit packages and professional development opportunities, to work life balance with flex days and flexible working opportunities, we offer our teammates a working environment in which they feel supported, encouraged and empowered to take risks and share their perspectives openly and freely.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:

Equality is entrenched in the MIABC's values and guiding principles. We celebrate, empower, and support the unique differences our staff, board and members bring to our organization. We strive to be a workforce and organization that is representative of the diversity of the communities in British Columbia.

• Participation in a defined pension plan;
• Incidental health spending account;
• The ability to work remotely two days a week;
• Optional participation in a flex day plan allowing for 18 flex days per calendar year;
• Legislative statutory holidays off as well as Easter Monday, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Boxing Day;
• A centrally located office next to transit, shopping, restaurants and the false creek seawall;
• Free parking on a first come first serve basis, with EV charging stations;
• Secure private bike storage;
• Monthly allowance for employees who choose to use their personal mobile phone for business;
• Mentorship programs; and
• Staff social activities

Status: Temporary full-time

Pay Range: $120,000-150,000