Associate Counsel - Vendor Contracts

As an Associate Counsel - Vendor Contracts at Veeva Systems, your core responsibilities include reviewing and negotiating various types of vendor contracts, such as technology agreements and consulting agreements. You’ll collaborate with internal business partners to clarify contract requirements and provide legal advice. Additionally, you’ll maintain a vendor contract database, assist in developing templates and playbooks, and engage in legal operations functions to streamline processes.

To qualify for the Associate Counsel - Vendor Contracts position at Veeva Systems, candidates must be a graduate of an accredited law school and possess a license to practice law. A minimum of 1 year of transactional experience in reviewing and negotiating commercial agreements is required. Fluency in English and Spanish is a must, along with a strong attention to detail and the ability to communicate clearly with non-lawyers.

Veeva Systems is committed to employee success by fostering a positive work culture and offering flexible work arrangements. As the Associate Counsel - Vendor Contracts, you’ll be supported through various health and wellness programs, stock bonuses, and additional annual leave over the Christmas break. Veeva emphasizes a work-life balance and empowers employees to thrive in environments that suit them best, whether they're working remotely or in the office.

In the Associate Counsel - Vendor Contracts position at Veeva Systems, you will handle a diverse range of contracts. These include complex technology agreements, copyright licenses, non-disclosure agreements, service contracts, media and advertising agreements, and consulting agreements, among others. This diversity provides a stimulating work environment where you can grow your legal expertise.

While not mandatory, having experience with financial services agreements, marketing agreements, and insurance policies can be beneficial for the Associate Counsel - Vendor Contracts position at Veeva Systems. This experience could enhance your ability to navigate complex vendor contracts and contribute to the legal team's success, particularly as Veeva continues to expand its global footprint.

When answering this question, focus on specific experiences where you successfully negotiated vendor contracts. Highlight the types of contracts, the challenges you faced, and the outcomes of those negotiations. Be sure to discuss your approach to understanding the needs of both parties and how you maintained compliance with legal standards.

To address this question, discuss your methods for breaking down complex legal jargon into understandable terms for non-lawyers. Emphasize the importance of clear communication and provide examples of how you have achieved this in past roles, potentially mentioning any tools or templates you have developed.

Here, you should describe your collaborative process in identifying contract requirements. Talk about how you engage with internal stakeholders, listen to their needs, and effectively translate those needs into contractual terms. Mention the importance of establishing strong relationships to facilitate better agreement on contract details.

When asked this, you’ll want to share a specific, impactful story that showcases your ability to handle contracts with care and expertise. Describe the context, your role, and the outcome. It could involve overcoming a unique challenge or achieving a significant milestone through your negotiation strategies.

Explain your grasp of privacy law, especially how it pertains to contracts. Discuss its importance in protecting sensitive information and how you ensure compliance when drafting or reviewing vendor contracts that involve data sharing or personal information.

In your response, detail how you prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and communicate with stakeholders during busy periods. Highlight your organizational skills and how being a self-starter helps you manage multiple reviews without compromising quality.

Discuss specific tools you’re proficient in, such as MS Word for editing, redlining, and Adobe for electronic signing. If you’ve used any contract management systems or platforms, mention them, focusing on how these tools help streamline your processes.

Here, mention resources you use to stay informed about legal changes, such as industry publications, legal blogs, or networking with peers. Talk about how this knowledge enhances your ability to draft and negotiate contracts that comply with the latest regulations.

Discuss the strategic importance of contracts in building partnerships, managing risks, and ensuring compliance. Emphasize that effective contracts contribute to a company's reputation and stability, thereby facilitating growth and success in the long run.

When answering, relate your career aspirations to Veeva's values and mission. Highlight how Veeva's commitment to improved life sciences resonates with you and discuss how your skills align with the needs of the role, reinforcing your enthusiasm for the opportunity.