Sr. Counsel, Executive Compensation and Benefits

Inspire Brands, Inc.$120K — $180K *
Legal & Accounting
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
  • Active bar membership in good standing
  • 10+ years of experience in legal advisory roles with a focus on executive compensation and benefits
  • Proven experience with Board-level governance and compensation committees
  • Strong understanding of executive compensation disclosures and regulatory requirements

Responsibilities

  • Advise on designing and structuring executive compensation programs
  • Collaborate with HR and Compensation teams to align compensation strategies with business objectives
  • Lead preparation of executive compensation disclosures for stakeholders
  • Serve as primary legal advisor to the Compensation Committee of the Board
  • Oversee legal aspects of equity and incentive plan management
  • Provide legal guidance on diverse employee benefits and compliance issues
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to ensure compliant execution of compensation programs

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work in a high-growth environment
  • Engage directly with Board members and senior executives
  • Legal oversight of innovative compensation strategies
  • Collaborative cross-functional teamwork with Finance, HR, and Legal
  • Involvement in governance and compliance best practices
Full Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Senior Counsel, Executive Compensation and Benefits to lead the design, governance, and legal oversight of executive compensation programs and broad-based compensation and benefits programs in a dynamic, high-growth environment. This role will be a critical partner to Legal, Finance, HR, and the Board, ensuring compensation practices are competitive, compliant, and aligned with evolving corporate governance and stakeholder expectations.

This is a strategic role for a legal expert who brings deep experience in executive compensation as well as broad-based compensation and benefits frameworks and thrives in organizations undergoing significant scale and increased regulatory complexity.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Executive Compensation Strategy & Design

  • Advise on the structure and design of executive compensation programs, including base salary, annual incentives, long-term incentives, and retention agreements.
  • Partner with HR and Compensation teams to align programs with business strategy, performance outcomes, and market practices.
  • Support benchmarking against peer companies and evolving market standards.

Governance & Disclosure

  • Lead preparation and review of executive compensation disclosures and related materials for external stakeholders, as applicable.
  • Ensure alignment with best practices in transparency, pay-for-performance, and stakeholder communication.
  • Advise on emerging trends in executive compensation governance and investor expectations.

Board & Committee Support

  • Serve as primary legal advisor to the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors
  • Prepare and review meeting materials, resolutions, and governance documentation.
  • Provide guidance on governance best practices and evolving developments relating to compensation and benefits.

Equity & Incentive Plan Management

  • Oversee the legal aspects of equity and incentive plan design, implementation, and administration.
  • Draft and review equity award agreements, plan documents, and amendments.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable tax, securities, and accounting requirements.

Employee Benefits

  • Provide legal guidance on qualified and nonqualified retirement plans, welfare benefit plans, and fringe benefits.
  • Advise on compliance with ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, ACA, and other applicable federal and state benefits laws.
  • Review plan documents, SPDs, amendments, and participant communications.
  • Assist with benefits issues arising in mergers, acquisitions, restructurings, and workforce transactions.

Regulatory & Compliance

  • Advise on executive compensation-related legal and regulatory requirements, including securities laws, tax rules, and disclosure obligations.
  • Monitor regulatory developments and proactively update internal practices and policies.
  • Partner cross-functionally to ensure consistent and compliant execution of compensation programs.

Cross-Functional Leadership

  • Collaborate with Legal, HR, Finance, Payroll, and external advisors to support compensation initiatives.
  • Manage outside counsel and compensation consultants as needed.
  • Provide guidance and training on compensation governance and compliance.

EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS

  • JD from an accredited law school
  • Active bar membership in good standing

EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS

  • 10+ years of relevant legal experience, including executive compensation and benefits
  • Experience supporting Board-level compensation governance and committee processes
  • Strong knowledge of executive compensation disclosure frameworks, equity compensation structures, and tax and regulatory requirements.
  • Experience in a public company or advising on public-company standards is strongly preferred.
  • Experience in consumer, retail, or QSR environments is a plus.

About Inspire Brands, Inc.

Inspire Brands, Inc. Careers

Joining Inspire Brands, Inc. presents a prime opportunity to be part of a diverse team of professionals dedicated to pioneering innovations in the food and beverage industry. Inspire Brands, Inc. stands out as a leader in creating dynamic dining experiences and is renowned for its commitment to excellence and growth.

Explore Job Opportunities

Inspire Brands, Inc. offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and interests. From leadership positions that shape the strategic direction of the company to entry-level roles that build professional foundations, there is a place for every ambitious individual. Explore open positions that align with your career aspirations and skills.

Internship Programs

Kickstart a career with Inspire Brands, Inc. through robust internship programs designed to foster skills and offer real-world experience in a supportive environment. Internships are a gateway to full-time employment and provide invaluable industry exposure.

Professional Growth and Development

Inspire Brands, Inc. is committed to the professional growth of its team members. With comprehensive training programs, including leadership development and diversity training, employees are equipped to excel in their roles and advance their careers. The company supports obtaining industry-recognized certifications and continuous learning.

Culture and Benefits

The culture at Inspire Brands, Inc. is built on a foundation of innovation and teamwork. Employees enjoy a range of benefits designed to support both their professional and personal lives. Benefits include health and wellness programs, competitive compensation packages, and flexible working conditions that underscore the company’s commitment to employee well-being.

Hiring Process

The hiring process at Inspire Brands, Inc. is designed to be transparent and engaging. Candidates can expect a thorough interview process where they can showcase their skills and learn about the company’s values and opportunities for career advancement. Tips for crafting an effective resume and succeeding in interviews are available through the company’s career blog.

Networking and Career Advancement

Inspire Brands, Inc. encourages networking within the industry, offering employees opportunities to connect with leaders and peers through professional groups and company events. These interactions often lead to innovative ideas and career advancement.

Join the Inspire Brands, Inc. Team

Search for available positions that match your skills and interests. Inspire Brands, Inc. looks for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Start the journey to a rewarding career with Inspire Brands, Inc. and help shape the future of dining experiences globally.

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