Corporate Counsel

About us

Fraport USA is a leading developer and manager of retail, food & beverage concession program in major U.S. airports overseeing operations in locations such as New York JFK T5, Newark Liberty International Airport Terminal B, Nashville International Airport, Baltimore/Washington International Airport, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport with focus on passenger experience to implement locally tailored commercial operations. Fraport USA is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fraport AG, one of the world’s largest airport operators.

Position Summary

Fraport USA is seeking an experienced Corporate Counsel to lead the legal function, mitigate contractual risk and support strategic growth. This role reports to the CEO and partners with senior management across operations, finance, HR, and compliance. The ideal candidate combines strong corporate, (airport) property management, and contract law expertise with a practical, business-minded approach.

The work is performed in a fast-paced environment and across multiple project sites. Requires attention to detail and ability to work independently as well as in a team and in an atmosphere of multiple projects, shifting priorities, and deadline pressures. 

Position is located at our corporate offices in Pittsburgh, PA. Candidates must be licensed in Pennsylvania or willing to become licensed in Pennsylvania prior to start.

Key Responsibilities

• Provides strategic legal advice to Fraport USA executive leadership and staff on corporate governance, contractual matters, risk management, and regulatory compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Oversees and responsible for all legal aspects of Fraport USA’s operations including leasing, negotiations and execution of agreements with airport authorities, tenant leases, and construction matters in collaboration with executive management and local leadership.
• Drafts, reviews, and negotiates commercial contracts such as leases, (master) service agreements, vendor contracts, management and joint venture agreements, NDA’s and MoU’s.
• Manages litigation and dispute resolution, including engagement and oversight of outside counsel, settlements, arbitration, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Oversees and manages corporate governance for Fraport USA and Fraport USA subsidiaries/affiliate entities including board materials, resolutions, reporting. 
• Manages and directs members of the legal department providing guidance, oversight, and ensures timely and accurate completion of assigned duties.
• Identifies proactively legal/contractual risks and implements remediation plans with clear timelines.
• Develops strong partnership with executive team, operations and HT and collaborates with finance in financial contract reviews.
• Monitors and stay current of applicable laws, regulations and regulatory changes affecting the industry and Fraport USA operations and provide policy updates.
• Manages intellectual property of Fraport USA and its subsidiaries/affiliates.
• Manages liability insurance, real property insurance, and other relevant commercial insurances for Fraport USA and its subsidiaries.
• Supports the Compliance Officer in drafting and implementing policies, codes of conduct and compliance management on legal matters.
• Supports on employment matters, labor and employment law in coordination with HR.
• Provides internal training on contract interpretation and legal risk to staff in coordination with HR.
• Manages legal budget and optimizes outside counsel engagement.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in Pennsylvania (or ability to obtain licensure promptly).
• 7–10 years of legal experience, preferably with commercial and aviation experience.
• Advanced knowledge of commercial real estate leases and contract law.
• Excellent negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, operational environment.
• Ability to translate complex legal concepts into practical business guidance.
• Experience in managing outside counsel and leading a small legal team.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with airport concessions, real estate leasing, or public-private partnerships.
• Familiarity with procurement regulations and government contracting.
• Understanding of data privacy and intellectual property issues.

Compensation and Benefits

• Primarily office-based 
• Occasional travel to company sites
• Competitive salary and bonus eligibility
• Comprehensive benefits package