HOPA Ports is seeking a Legal Counsel to join our Senior Leadership Team to drive the sustainable growth of Ontario’s largest port authority. In this key position you will work closely with our Executive Team to shape strategy, influence major projects, and help build the expansion of our port network. Join a purpose-driven organization where work-life balance is valued, and where your expertise moves communities, commerce, and innovation forward.
What you’ll do:
Your expertise will help HOPA navigate complex legal landscapes and unlock opportunities for growth. Here’s how you’ll make an impact:
- Lead contract work: advise on strategic commercial transactions, draft, review, negotiate, and monitor a wide range of agreements, from leases and customer contracts to partnerships and memoranda of understanding, ensuring business objectives are achieved.
- Be the compliance champion: stay ahead of governing legislation, advise on regulatory matters, and implement processes that keep us aligned with legal requirements.
- Manage risk: collaborate with external counsel on litigation, develop strategies to minimize exposure, and resolve disputes efficiently.
- Support governance: work closely with the Board of Directors on corporate governance matters.
- Protect and prepare: identify legal risks, implement mitigation strategies, and collaborate on insurance-related matters to safeguard our operations.
What you bring:
We’re looking for a legal leader who combines technical expertise with strategic vision:
- Law degree (LL.B. or J.D.) and member in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario
- Approximately 5+ years’ experience preferably in corporate/commercial law, with the ability to align legal strategies with organizational goals.
- Comfort working across a range of legal issues, with the ability to assess risk and provide clear, practical advice. Business-savvy and strategically minded, with the ability to identify opportunities, and provide forward-thinking legal guidance that supports growth and innovation.
- Strong negotiation, communication and analytical skills, enabling you to influence decisions and build strong partnerships.
- Collaborative approach, thriving in cross-functional teams and contributing to a culture of trust and innovation.
Working at HOPA:
HOPA offers a supportive environment where you can build a long‑term in‑house career. Our competitive compensation package is designed to support our employees’ success:
- A competitive salary aligned with the public‑sector / in‑house market
- Annual bonus program
- Comprehensive health and dental benefits plus a health care spending account
- Defined contribution pension plan
- Education and professional development support
- Strong commitment to work-life balance and a collaborative, innovative team environment
Recognized as one of Hamilton-Niagara’s Top Employers, HOPA Ports manages Ontario’s largest and most successful port network. We’re committed to protecting the environment, enhancing our community, and building a workplace where your contributions truly make an impact.
Learn more about us: https://www.hopaports.ca/about-hopa/people-and-careers/
Everyone is welcome.
We believe diverse perspectives drive better decisions and stronger communities. As part of our commitment to inclusivity, diversity, equity and accessibility, our goal is a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome all qualified applicants to apply including individuals with disabilities, those who identify as Black, Indigenous or persons of colour, members of the LGBTQ2S+ community and others. We are happy to honour accommodations at any part of the recruitment process and invite you to let us know how we can help.
Please forward resumes to [email protected].
We thank all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
