Associate, Trade

Our Trade Practice specializes in advising clients on international trade laws and regulations, guiding them through the complexities of global commerce. We offer strategic legal counsel on a range of matters including import/export compliance, trade sanctions, customs regulations and trade policy. Our team helps clients manage risk associated with cross-border transactions, secure necessary trade licenses and permits, and resolve disputes related to international trade. We also represent clients in trade-related litigation and before regulatory bodies. By leveraging our in-depth knowledge of global trade frameworks and policies, our Trade Practice supports clients in optimizing their international operations, ensuring regulatory compliance and achieving their business objectives in a competitive global market

Position Summary

 

We are currently seeking a senior associate with experience in export controls to join the Trade group in our Washington, DC office. This is an opportunity to advise multinational companies, trade associations and governments on complex and commercially significant trade matters involving the movement of goods, services, and technologies across borders.

Working closely with leading practitioners in the Firm’s global trade practice, you will support clients across a broad range of industries on U.S. and international trade issues.  Matters may include advisory guidance on compliance with U.S. export controls, assistance with export licensing and classification, transactional support and due diligence, internal investigations and government disclosures.

As part of a collaborative and globally integrated team, you will assume meaningful responsibility from the outset. The position offers the opportunity to work directly with clients, coordinate with colleagues in offices around the world and develop practical solutions to evolving trade and geopolitical challenges. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical and drafting abilities, sound judgment and a commercially minded approach to advising clients in a fast-paced regulatory environment.

Duties and Responsibilities

Responsibilities will vary depending on client needs and the nature of a matter, but will generally include:

• Advise clients on the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), including classification, licensing, and jurisdiction questions
• Prepare and submit commodity classification requests (CCATS), commodity jurisdiction (CJ) determinations, export license applications, and voluntary self-disclosures (VSDs)
• Handle ITAR registrations, general correspondence, technical assistance agreements (TAAs), manufacturing license agreements (MLAs), warehouse and distribution agreements (WDAs), DSP-5 applications, and 5-day and 60-day notice requirements
• Advise on DOE nuclear export regulations (10 C.F.R. Part 810) and related authorizations
• Conduct critical technology analyses for CFIUS filings and advise on export control aspects of foreign investment reviews
• Lead export control due diligence and negotiate related contract terms in M&A and other transactions
• Draft and implement export compliance policies, procedures, and training programs
• Advise on sector-specific issues, including encryption, semiconductors, and aviation and aerospace
• Mentor junior attorneys and contribute to business development and thought leadership

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor or equivalent degree
• Admission to the District of Columbia bar, eligibility for admission, or admission in another U.S. jurisdiction and ability to qualify for practice in Washington, DC
• Approximately three to six years of relevant law firm, government or in-house experience in export controls.
• Substantial experience with the EAR and ITAR; familiarity with DOE nuclear regulations and CFIUS critical technology analysis strongly preferred
• Hands-on experience in preparing export control filings with the U.S. government, e.g., CCATS, CJs, licenses, VSDs, TAAs, MLAs, WDAs, DSP-5s, and ITAR notices.
• Experience with encryption and other technologies, ideally including semiconductors and aviation
• Demonstrated experience with due diligence and contract negotiation
• Experience preparing and implementing compliance programs
• Excellent analytical, research, and writing skills
• Strong judgment, client-service orientation, and ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Ability to translate complex legal and regulatory requirements into actionable advice for legal and business stakeholders
• Strong problem-solving skills, sound judgment and a pragmatic, commercially minded approach
• Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize effectively and remain calm under pressure
• Demonstrated initiative, resourcefulness and ability to work independently on discrete assignments while contributing effectively to a team
• Motivated to hone professional skills and take advantage of opportunities for growth 
• Commitment to excellent client service
• Foreign language proficiency a plus

Location and Compensation

• Location: Washington, DC
• Compensation: US$310,000 - $390,000

This role reports to

Partner

Equal Opportunities

White & Case is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and is committed to creating a fair workplace. It is our Firm’s policy to recruit, employ, train, compensate and promote without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other category protected by applicable law.

Applicants who are interested in applying for a position and require an accommodation during the process should contact [email protected].

Benefits at White & Case

White & Case LLP offers a comprehensive suite of benefit programs to all eligible employees, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, 401(k) retirement savings, vacation time, and leave programs (including parental leave). Exempt roles are also performance bonus eligible.

The Firm may modify and amend any job description at any time in its sole discretion. Nothing herein creates a contract of employment or otherwise modifies the at-will nature of employment.

The above is only a general description of the essential duties associated with this position and does not represent an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all duties.

Note to Recruitment Agencies

Our internal Recruitment team manages all aspects of lateral hiring. All agencies must have signed terms of business—specific to the relevant office—before submitting any candidates. CVs or applications sent directly to White & Case partners or employees will also not be considered formal introductions. If you have questions, please contact the relevant Recruitment team. We work with our preferred suppliers when engaging agencies.