Legal Counsel

Telesat (Nasdaq and TSX: TSAT) is a leading global satellite operator, providing reliable and secure satellite-delivered communications solutions worldwide to broadcast, telecommunications, corporate and government customers for over 55 years.  Backed by a legacy of engineering excellence, reliability and industry-leading customer service, Telesat has grown to be one of the largest and most successful global satellite operators.

Telesat Lightspeed, our revolutionary Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network, scheduled to begin service in 2027, will revolutionize global broadband connectivity for enterprise and Government users by delivering a combination of high capacity, security, resiliency and affordability with ultra-low latency and fiber-like speeds. Telesat is headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, and has offices and facilities around the world.
 
The company’s state-of-the-art Satellite fleet consists of 12 GEO satellites, the Canadian payload on ViaSat-1 and one LEO 3 demonstration satellite.  For more information, follow Telesat on X and LinkedIn or visit www.telesat.com

Main Responsibilities

• The position will be engaged in providing a wide range of legal services to all sectors of Telesat with a primary emphasis on reviewing, drafting and negotiating agreements with suppliers and commercial and government customers, including consulting agreements, master service agreements, memoranda of understanding, technology licenses, equipment purchase agreements, and non-disclosure agreements; providing contract interpretation and legal advice to Telesat’s employees and management; and handling other corporate and commercial matters as they arise (e.g., bankruptcy, litigation, security and export control, financing, real property, etc.).  
• The position will also manage Telesat’s contract templates and contract workflow and database processes and procedures.
• The position will work closely and coordinate with other members of Telesat’s legal and senior management teams to ensure alignment of legal priorities with the needs and requirements of Telesat Lightspeed and Telesat’s other satellite-based communications services.
• The position will assist the Law Department in its objective of ensuring that all of the legal needs of Telesat are met such that: (i) Telesat is fully compliant with all applicable laws; and (ii) Telesat limits its liability and protects its assets in accordance with prudent commercial practices.
• The position must establish, foster, and maintain good working relationships with internal stakeholders from all operating units within Telesat.

Education and Experience

• A law degree and be a member in good standing of a provincial or state bar
• 5+ years of corporate/commercial experience gained at a major firm and/or corporation
• IP and software licensing, drafting contracts for sale and lease of equipment, litigation, financing, and export control and security experience will be beneficial

Skills and Abilities

• Excellent oral and written communication skills in dealing with clients, staff, and senior management
• Ability to effectively communicate with technical and non-technical individuals
• Strong organizational skills
• A team player, collaborative and independently driven
• Must demonstrate a flexible, open-minded attitude and have strong interpersonal skills
• Able to work well in a fast-paced, multi-function environment with overlapping priorities
• Asset: Bilingual in English and French (but not required)

Supervision

• Depending on the background of the candidate, this role may or may not initially have direct reports. 
• The position will work and interact with multi-disciplinary engineering, contracts, legal, and commercial teams to provide guidance to management and employees.

Working Conditions

• Considerable attention to detail
• Pressure during negotiations to optimize cost savings, obtain beneficial terms and conditions, and to meet tight deadlines
• Working conditions are typical of an office environment 
• Occasional travel, including international travel, is possible