The E.W. Scripps Company
The E.W. Scripps Company
5,001 – 10,000 Employees
MediaSports
The E.W. Scripps Company is a publicly traded American media organization producing and distributing news and entertainment through local and national platforms. Its portfolio includes local media brands, Scripps Networks, Scripps Sports programming, and the Scripps National Spelling Bee. The company’s work centers on local journalism, multi-platform audience engagement, and the operation of recognizable consumer media properties.

Senior Counsel, Regulatory Affairs and Corporate Transactions

Advise on broadcast distribution agreements, FCC compliance, and corporate transactions at Scripps. Draft and negotiate contracts, manage regulatory filings, and support M&A approvals.

Description

  • Advise on regulatory and contractual rights, obligations, most-favored-nation provisions, and transaction standards for retransmission consent, network, and program distribution.
  • Draft offers and contracts from approved deal terms and coordinate negotiations with Distribution.
  • Review and negotiate incoming requests, including retransmission consent, network distribution, nondisclosure, master services, and related agreements.
  • Develop contract forms for evolving business models.
  • Review standard terms and templates for accuracy and efficiency.
  • Coordinate with business units to manage deal flow and contract execution.
  • Manage outside counsel as needed and oversee the contract management system.
  • Monitor FCC regulations and compliance obligations.
  • Prepare FCC compliance materials with internal teams.
  • Work with the VP of Government Affairs on compliance matters.
  • Support monthly, quarterly, and annual FCC filings and reports.
  • Maintain compliance records and submit required federal reports on time.
  • Advise internal stakeholders on compliance standards.
  • Support mergers and acquisitions, including obtaining regulatory approvals.
  • Prepare regulatory filings and notices, including FCC license transfer applications and waiver requests.
  • Coordinate regulatory approval strategy with corporate development and M&A counsel.

Requirements

  • Juris Doctor from an accredited law school.
  • Active law license in good standing with at least one state bar; Ohio, New York, New Jersey, or Georgia admission is preferred.
  • At least five years of experience at a law firm, as in-house counsel in technology, regulatory, or intellectual property law, and/or in a business role focused on program licensing and distribution.
  • Strong contract drafting skills and experience with licensing, production, and local media distribution.
  • Familiarity with FCC regulations for broadcast and digital platforms.
  • Accuracy and a disciplined approach to compliance and risk management.
  • Ability to counsel creative and business partners while balancing legal and business considerations.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Proficiency with Word, Excel, and related tools.
  • Experience with federal regulatory compliance, including FCC rules and reporting processes.
  • Experience with retransmission consent, corporate governance processes, and related compliance requirements.

Benefits

  • Equal employment opportunity and reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities.
  • A respectful, inclusive workplace focused on belonging, connection, and fair opportunity.

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