Application Guide

How to Apply for General Counsel

at Helen Keller Intl

🏢 About Helen Keller Intl

Helen Keller Intl is a global health organization that builds on the legacy of Helen Keller, focusing on preventable blindness, malnutrition, and other health issues in over 20 countries. Working here means contributing to life-changing programs that empower communities to overcome poverty, with a strong commitment to evidence-based solutions and collaboration.

About This Role

As General Counsel, you will be the principal legal advisor, guiding the CEO, leadership, and Board on a wide range of legal matters, from compliance and governance to contracts and risk management. This role is impactful because your counsel will directly support the organization's mission, ensuring legal integrity while enabling the organization to operate effectively across diverse international contexts.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing contracts for international partnerships, advising on employment law matters for staff in multiple countries, and preparing materials for the Board of Trustees. You might also handle compliance issues, such as ensuring compliance with U.S. regulations for foreign grants, and provide real-time legal guidance to program teams on the ground.

🎯 Who Helen Keller Intl Is Looking For

  • A seasoned attorney with extensive experience in nonprofit law, including governance, tax-exempt status, and international operations.
  • Strategic thinker who can provide practical, business-oriented legal advice, balancing risk with mission-driven goals.
  • Excellent communicator, able to translate complex legal issues for non-legal audiences, including the Board and leadership.
  • Self-starter comfortable in a senior individual-contributor role, with the ability to work independently and remotely.

📝 Tips for Applying to Helen Keller Intl

1

Tailor your resume to highlight nonprofit legal experience, especially any work with international NGOs or public health organizations.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your legal expertise to Helen Keller Intl's mission, showing a genuine passion for global health and poverty alleviation.

3

Research Helen Keller Intl's current programs and strategic priorities, and mention specific ways your legal skills can support those initiatives.

4

Emphasize any experience with remote work and managing legal matters across multiple jurisdictions, as this role is remote and international.

5

If possible, network with current or former employees to gain insights into the organization's culture and legal challenges, and mention any conversations in your application.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your commitment to the organization's mission and how your legal expertise can help advance it.", 'Specific examples of providing strategic legal counsel to senior leadership and boards in nonprofit settings.', 'Your ability to handle complex regulatory and compliance issues, especially in international contexts.', 'Your collaborative approach and ability to work effectively across diverse teams and cultures.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Explore Helen Keller Intl's website to understand their current programs, especially in nutrition, eye health, and health systems strengthening.
  • Read recent annual reports and financial statements to understand the organization's scale, funding sources, and global footprint.
  • Review any recent news or press releases about Helen Keller Intl to see current challenges or achievements.
  • Look into the organization's history and Helen Keller's legacy to appreciate the values that drive the organization.
Visit Helen Keller Intl's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach providing legal advice to a global organization with operations in over 20 countries?
2 Describe a time you had to balance legal risk with the organization's mission-driven goals. What was the outcome?
3 How do you stay updated on international regulations and ensure compliance across different jurisdictions?
4 What experience do you have with board governance and advising on fiduciary duties?
5 How would you handle a potential conflict of interest or ethical dilemma involving a senior leader?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention the organization's mission or specific programs.
  • Focusing only on your legal credentials without demonstrating an understanding of the nonprofit sector's unique legal landscape.
  • Ignoring the remote aspect of the role; be sure to address your ability to work independently and manage your time effectively.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Helen Keller Intl!