Chief Regulatory Attorney

About the Role

Lead regulatory attorney with expertise in state and federal regulatory law and policy, along with other areas spanning the company. Provide legal counsel and direction to various major operational units, specifically supporting regulatory matters before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and state regulatory commissions. Manage legal staff, handle complex legal matters, and represent the company in court, formal hearings, and regulatory proceedings.

Responsibilities

• Ensure appropriate application of all laws and regulations related to the company’s corporate and operational activities and transactions.
• Assess and mitigate legal risks of company activities and advise management on legal and strategic matters.
• Participate in contract negotiation and ensure compliance with contract terms.
• Establish policies and procedures consistent with legal principles and requirements.
• Monitor and maintain current knowledge of industry trends in legal and compliance matters relating to the energy industries.
• Provide legal counsel and direction within major operational units, focusing on regulatory matters before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and state regulatory commissions.
• Handle complex legal and regulatory projects, representing the company in court, formal hearings, and regulatory hearings.
• Consult with and manage outside legal counsel and provide guidance and training to less experienced attorneys.
• Serve as a primary interface with senior management regarding litigation reserves and accruals.
• Draft and negotiate agreements and counsel on compliance, litigation, intellectual-property, and risk-management issues.
• Manage legal staff as appropriate.

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school and successful completion of the bar exam in one or more states where the company conducts business.
• A minimum of ten years of previous law firm experience.
• Demonstrated in-depth experience and knowledge of legal and regulatory issues, particularly in the energy sector.
• Familiarity with the political and legal implications of company decisions.
• Strong management skills, including the ability to negotiate with and influence peers and senior officers on policy and strategic issues.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to manage and motivate employees.
• Ability to use oral and written communication to create a vision, communicate strategy, and interface effectively with other company leaders.
• Knowledge of the company’s strategic plan, regulatory and political environment, policies, procedures, and practices.
• Expertise in applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without accommodation.

About Us

MidAmerican Energy Company, a Midwest utility, provides regulated electric and natural gas service to more than 1.6 million customers in Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota. The company owns and operates a portfolio of power-generating assets, approximately 61% of which is wind generation.