Corporate Counsel

About Perry Ellis International
Perry Ellis International, Inc. is a leading designer, distributor and licensor of a broad line of high quality men's and women's apparel, accessories and fragrances. The company's collection of dress and casual shirts, golf sportswear, sweaters, dress pants, casual pants and shorts, jeans wear, active wear, dresses and men's and women's swimwear is available through all major levels of retail distribution. The company, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, owns a portfolio of nationally and internationally recognized brands, including: Perry Ellis®, An Original Penguin by Munsingwear®, Laundry by Shelli Segal®, Rafaella®, Cubavera®, Ben Hogan®, Savane®, Grand Slam®, John Henry®, Manhattan®, Axist® and Farah®. The company enhances its roster of brands by licensing trademarks from third parties, including: Nike® for swimwear, and Callaway®, PGA TOUR® and Jack Nicklaus® for golf apparel. Additional information on the company is available at www.pery.com.

Overview of Company

Perry Ellis International, Inc. represents a diverse portfolio of lifestyle apparel brands. The Company, through its wholly owned subsidiaries owns and licenses nationally and with a brand portfolio of over 42 Brands domestically and internationally recognized brands including: Perry Ellis®, Original Penguin® by Munsingwear®, Laundry by Shelli Segal®, Rafaella®, Cubavera®, Ben Hogan®, Savane®, Grand Slam®, John Henry®, Manhattan®, Axist®, Jantzen® and Farah®. The Company enhances its roster of brands by licensing trademarks from third parties, including: Nike® and Jag® for swimwear, and Callaway®, PGA TOUR®, and Jack Nicklaus® for golf apparel. 

Corporate Counsel, Position Overview

Perry Ellis International is seeking a dynamic and experienced Corporate Counsel to join our legal team. This role will provide comprehensive legal support to our global lifestyle brand, focusing on contract management, regulatory compliance, intellectual property protection, and litigation support. Reporting directly to the Chief Legal Officer, the Corporate Counsel will serve as a trusted advisor to various business units, contributing to strategic initiatives and ensuring legal compliance across all operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Legal Advisory & Compliance:
• Provide expert legal counsel to senior management on diverse matters, including corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and contract negotiation.
• Monitor and interpret federal, state, and international laws and regulations impacting the apparel industry.
• Develop and implement legal strategies and policies that align with Perry Ellis International's business objectives.
• Ensure strict compliance with all applicable laws and regulations within the fashion and retail sectors.
• Contract Management:
• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of commercial agreements, including licensing, distribution, manufacturing, and marketing contracts.
• Conduct thorough reviews and analyses of vendor, supplier, and partnership agreements.
• Provide expert advice on indemnity clauses, guarantees, and other contractual provisions, including insurance and indemnity requirements.
• Support the company's international expansion through meticulous contract review and compliance analysis.

• Intellectual Property:
• Assist in the enforcement and protection of Perry Ellis International's trademark portfolio.
• Provide support for IP litigation matters, including trademark infringement cases.
• Collaborate with business teams on licensing agreements and IP strategy development.
• Litigation Support:
• Manage and oversee litigation and dispute resolution processes.
• Resolve issues arising from existing commercial relationships and manage pre-litigation legal disputes and inquiries.
• Coordinate effectively with external legal counsel as needed.
• Business Operations Support:
• Provide ongoing legal counsel in areas such as intellectual property, digital media, and regulatory compliance.
• Serve as a lead counsel, directly advising business clients on strategic deals.
• Develop and deliver training programs on legal and compliance issues for staff.

Qualifications & Skills

• Required Qualifications:
• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active license to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction (Florida bar preferred).
• 3-4 years of relevant legal experience, ideally in corporate law, retail, or the fashion industry.
• Experience in private practice or in-house legal roles within a consumer goods or retail company.
• Demonstrated expertise in contract drafting, review, and negotiation.
• Preferred Skills:
• Prior experience in the apparel/fashion industry.
• Strong knowledge of intellectual property law, with a focus on trademark protection.
• Experience with international business transactions and global compliance issues.
• Familiarity with licensing agreements and brand protection strategies.

• Personal Attributes:
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Self starter who thrives in an entrepreneurial environment.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Meticulous attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.
• Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills.
• Business-oriented problem solver with a flexible and collaborative team spirit.
• Ability to analyze complex legal matters and develop creative, practical solutions.

Work Environment

• This is an on-site position based at Perry Ellis International's headquarters in Miami, FL.
• The work environment is collaborative and focused on teamwork, growth, and respect.
• 5 days a week in office.

Legal Disclaimer:

Perry Ellis International is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their individual background and characteristics. We are committed to providing a workplace free of any discrimination or harassment. This commitment extends to all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotion, transfer, compensation, and termination. By submitting your application, you acknowledge and agree to the company's commitment to equal employment opportunities.

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