Senior Counsel-Commercial (hybrid)

Senior Counsel-CommercialLocation: Hybrid – 3 days/week in office, Columbus, OH or Merrillville, INJob DescriptionThe position requires the provision of legal advice to clients on various complex commercial matters, including supply chain, data privacy, and intellectual property (IP) matters. The successful candidate combines knowledge of one or more legal specialties with sound business acumen, and knowledge of business goals and objectives and has significant experience and subject matter expertise.This position reports to the Deputy General Counsel and is expected to understand NiSource’s business and be able to identify and analyze issues that impact the operation, execution and success of the business; and provide strategic practical advice and solutions to address identified concerns through cooperative means in partnership with internal business clients. The role is specifically designed to serve as a cross-functional partner to the entire commercial function, with preference given to candidates with experience in data privacy/IP matters and supply chain/procurement matters. This position will serve to drive the organization to achieve strategic objectives by leveraging and supporting the capabilities and insights of individuals with diverse backgrounds, cultures, styles and abilities; and be a catalyst for helping the business to embrace organizational and cultural transformations for its betterment. The successful candidate should have at least five (5) years of legal experience. Foundational training as a lawyer either in-house in the energy sector or at a large law firm is strongly preferred.Principle Duties and ResponsibilitiesResolves legal issues and provides proactive, strategic, business-savvy legal advice and counselManages complex mattersManages outside counsel on select mattersAnticipates internal/external business and regulatory issues and provides applicable legal adviceReviews and revises contracts and other legal documentsNegotiates with outside parties on contractual issues and legal disputesAssists in training clients on legal issuesSupports the data privacy and IP practice by advising on data protection compliance (including federal and state privacy laws), technology licensing, intellectual property rights, and related transactional mattersPartners with the supply chain practice on procurement strategies, vendor contract structuring, supplier risk management, and regulatory compliance affecting supply chain operationsLeads or supports transaction structuring and M&A activities, including due diligence, deal documentation, and post-closing integration mattersCoordinates cross-functionally with commercial team members to ensure consistent legal positions and streamlined advice to the businessRequired Qualifications for PositionJuris Doctor Degree from an accredited law schoolLicensed to practice law in at least one state in the U.S. and a member in good standing with the state barMinimum of 5+ years of experience, ...