Opportunity at
CanvaSenior Legal Counsel, Americas
Canva is hiring a Senior Legal Counsel, Americas, a full-time, on-site role in San Francisco. The posting says relocation is possible for suitable candidates who note…
Career Tools
About This Role
Canva is hiring a Senior Legal Counsel, Americas, a full-time, on-site role in San Francisco. The posting says relocation is possible for suitable candidates who note it in their application. The role is an employment law position reporting to the company's Global Head of Employment Legal, who is based in Australia. It is a regional role with global reach, and the lawyer will also contribute to company-wide employment projects. The…
Job Description
Canva is hiring a Senior Legal Counsel, Americas, a full-time, on-site role in San Francisco. The posting says relocation is possible for suitable candidates who note it in their application. The role is an employment law position reporting to the company's Global Head of Employment Legal, who is based in Australia. It is a regional role with global reach, and the lawyer will also contribute to company-wide employment projects.
The lawyer acts as a trusted employment adviser to Canva's Americas business and People team, offering commercially minded guidance on performance management, discipline, complaints, contractors, international transfers and staff relations. Other duties include drafting and negotiating employment documents such as separation agreements, managing employment disputes and litigation, carrying out classification reviews, helping develop workplace policies, liaising with outside counsel in the US and elsewhere, and delivering employment training.
The posting asks for at least eight years of relevant experience gained at a respected law firm, in-house, or both, preferably in a quickly expanding global tech business. Candidates must be admitted to a US state bar and in good standing, and should know employment law well across several US states. Sound judgement, a collaborative approach and the ability to explain complex matters clearly, with advice that is risk-aware rather than risk-averse, are all expected. Interviews are conducted virtually.
Responsibilities
- Advise the Americas region on employment matters such as performance, discipline, complaints, contractors, international transfers and staff relations
- Prepare and negotiate employment documents, including separation agreements
- Manage employment disputes and litigation
- Carry out employment classification reviews and compliance initiatives
- Lead complex regional and company-wide employment projects, coordinating internal and external advisers
- Help draft and refine workplace rules, procedures, guidance notes and forms that match local law
- Coordinate with outside lawyers in the United States and other countries
- Deliver employment-related training across Canva
Requirements
- At least eight years of relevant experience, from a respected law firm, in-house, or both
- Admitted to a US state bar and in good standing
- Practical grasp of employment rules across several US states
- Sound judgement and a collaborative, flexible approach
- Ability to explain complex matters clearly and give pragmatic, risk-aware advice
- Strong sense of ownership and ability to drive projects with stakeholders
Qualifications
- Time at a quickly expanding global technology firm (ideal)
Core Skills
Benefits
- Equity packages
- Health benefit plans
- Employer-funded 401(k) retirement plan
- Inclusive parental leave policy for all parents and carers
- Annual Vibe & Thrive allowance for wellbeing, social connection, office setup and more
- Flexible leave options
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers are based only on the employer’s listing; where it doesn’t say, neither do we.
Is the role based in San Francisco?
Yes. The posting places the role in San Francisco and says relocation is possible for suitable candidates who state it in their application.
What salary range is listed?
The target salary range is $190,000 to $280,000. Offers are based on market data and the candidate's skills and experience.
How are interviews conducted?
The posting says interviews are conducted virtually.
What background is needed?
At least eight years of relevant experience and admission to a US state bar in good standing.
Sample Interview Questions
AI-generated questions tailored to this specific role — a preview of the full practice set.