Full-Time
Senior Director & Associate General Counsel
Employment Law & Ethics
Updated on 9/4/2026
National Geographic Society
501-1,000 employees
Nonprofit funding explorers for science, storytelling
Compensation Overview
$209k - $220k/yr
No H1B Sponsorship
Washington, DC, USA
Hybrid
Two days on-site per week, every Tuesday and Wednesday.
JD
 Legal (1) |
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- A Juris Doctor degree and a license to practice as an attorney in the District of Columbia are required.
- At least 12 years of law firm or in-house experience in employment law counseling are required.
- Employment law counseling and employment litigation or dispute resolution experience are required.
- Substantive knowledge of Titles II and VII, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, and other employment and anti-discrimination laws is required.
- Experience conducting internal investigations and responding to employment discrimination claims is required.
- Superior writing and analytical skills and the ability to quickly learn the fundamentals of different areas of the law are required.
- The ability to interface effectively with senior leadership, Human Resources professionals, and all levels of staff is required.
- Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
- The position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
- Advise Human Resources professionals, senior leadership, and other managers on National Geographic Society policies and practices relating to local and federal employment and anti-discrimination laws, including Titles II and VII, District of Columbia law, the Affordable Care Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, the Equal Employment Opportunity Executive Order 11246, and United States immigration laws.
- Stay abreast of and advise regarding pending legislation and developments in case law.
- Advise on corporate downsizings, hiring, terminations, reorganizations, discipline, and other employment matters.
- Draft, negotiate, and review employment contracts, severance agreements, temporary staffing agreements, and independent contractor agreements.
- Advise on and manage outside counsel with respect to benefits agreements and international employment law issues.
- Manage employment-related claims, including claims brought under the Society’s Alternative Dispute Resolution program, and keep the program current with developing law.
- Work with and manage outside counsel, mediators, Human Resources, and business units to present the Society’s best case for threatened and filed claims, including developing successful strategies and resolving potential cases.
- Respond to subpoenas.
- Review and respond to Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and other agency charges of employment discrimination.
- Represent the Society in mediations and arbitrations.
- Conduct internal investigations and report to relevant decision-makers regarding ethical complaints and other violations of organizational policies.
- Manage outside counsel as needed in certain investigations.
- Provide confidential reporting as required regarding investigations.
- Act as the lead for the Legal and Business Affairs Department on ethical allegation matters.
- Develop, adjust, train, ensure compliance with, and enforce the National Geographic Society Code of Ethics.
- Educate managers and staff on the Code of Ethics and other training programs.
- Review, respond to, and resolve ethical concerns raised by Society employees and third parties, escalating where appropriate.
- Supervise one staff member.
- Conflict resolution experience is preferred.
The National Geographic Society is a nonprofit that supports a global network of changemakers called Explorers who use science, exploration, education, and storytelling to illuminate and protect the natural world. It funds and resources these Explorers to carry out field research, education programs, and communications projects, sharing discoveries through National Geographic’s media platforms (including partnerships with Disney) and other outreach channels. This organization differs from many groups by focusing on funding and empowering a diverse community of researchers and storytellers rather than running only in-house programs, and by blending scientific work with public storytelling to reach broad audiences. Its goal is to illuminate the wonders of the world and protect it by expanding knowledge, informing people, and encouraging conservation and responsible exploration.
Company Size
501-1,000
Company Stage
Acquired
Total Funding
$725M
Headquarters
Washington DC, District of Columbia
Founded
1888
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- The June 26 Museum of Exploration creates fresh paid attendance and sponsorship revenue.
- 2026 Wayfinder Awards and Explorer honors keep the brand central in conservation circles.
- Lion and Earth Month programming deepen Disney distribution and audience reach in 2026.
What critics are saying
- July 2026 Disney layoffs hit National Geographic television, editorial, and digital teams.
- Four years and $300 million renovations demand sustained ticket sales after June 26 opening.
- Asset sales and recurring cuts signal dependence on Disney, threatening editorial independence and long-term identity.
What makes National Geographic Society unique
- June 2026 Museum of Exploration adds 100,000 square feet at Washington headquarters.
- Disney partnership powers National Geographic documentaries, streaming, and Earth Month immersive experiences.
- Mission-led brand combines science, conservation, education, and storytelling under one recognizable yellow banner.
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Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
401(k) Company Match
Wellness Program
Paid Vacation
Paid Sick Leave
Paid Holidays
Parental Leave
Fertility Treatment Support
Adoption Assistance
Lifestyle Spending Account
Pet Insurance
Hybrid Work Options
Phone/Internet Stipend
Commuter Benefits
Life Insurance
Disability Insurance
Professional Development Budget
Growth & Insights and Company News
6 month growth
↓ -65%1 year growth
↓ -65%2 year growth
↓ -65%Waitrose, National Geographic launch regenerative farming series. Waitrose & Partners has announced a collaboration with National Geographic CreativeWorks to produce a two-part YouTube series aimed at boosting awareness around regenerative farming. Available since 19 August, the series intends to lay bare the current challenges facing the global food system and explore how Waitrose works with farmers within its supply chain to combat them. Filmed on location at Waitrose's Leckford Estate farm, the series provides a glimpse into Waitrose's Farming for Nature programme, which supports around 2,000 British farmers as they transition to more nature-friendly, sustainable practices. Furthermore, Waitrose has committed to source all its UK meat, milk, eggs, fruit, vegetables, and horticulture products from farms utilising regenerative practices by 2030. 'The future of food' Commenting on the series, Andrew Hoad, director of the Leckford Estate, said, "At Leckford, we aren't just talking about the future of farming; we are living it every day. This series is a vital rally cry to show why transforming our food system matters to everyone. [...]" Through the Farming for Nature programme, Hoad hopes to ensure that "customers can trust that Waitrose's own-brand British produce is grown in a way that seeks to improve the natural environment." A spokesperson for National Geographic also commented, "The future of food is one of the defining stories of its time and one incredibly close to its hearts at National Geographic CreativeWorks. [...] "Using the power of National Geographic storytelling, we're exploring not just why it matters but how positive change is already happening, and we can't wait for you to see it!" The two-part series is available to stream globally on National Geographic's and Waitrose's YouTube channels.
Save the Redwoods League names Lisa Tawil as Chief Marketing and Communications Officer. August 12, 2026 San Francisco, Calif. (August 12, 2026) - Save the Redwoods League announced today that Lisa Tawil has been named Chief Marketing and Communications Officer. In this executive leadership role, Tawil will oversee organization-wide strategic communications and marketing programs to support the only nonprofit land trust working across the coastal redwood and giant sequoia ranges. "I'm honored to join Save the Redwoods League and help bring its legacy to new audiences," said Tawil. "I've long admired Save the Redwoods' holistic approach to conservation and their commitment to building community relationships with these landscapes. I look forward to working with the team and leadership to build on more than a century of achievement and inspire the next generation to care for these forests." Tawil most recently served at ITVS (Independent Television Service) in San Francisco as Senior Vice President, Brand, Communications & Audience Growth. During her thirteen years at ITVS, she rose from Director of Marketing, Publicity and Creative Services to lead the organization's brand, communications, content, creative and social impact teams. She led multi-platform public engagement campaigns across brand, communications and digital innovation to build national coalitions that connected mission-driven storytelling to millions of viewers and grassroots supporters nationwide. Under Tawil's leadership, ITVS earned an Institutional Peabody Award and a Television Academy Governor's Award for systemic contributions to cultural representation and civic storytelling in media. She and her team delivered 300% year-over-year growth in streaming audiences. Tawil also led the brand narrative and editorial strategy for PBS Documentaries. Prior to joining ITVS, Tawil worked at the National Geographic Channel developing media strategies that contributed to the largest viewership in the channel's 10-year history. She began her career at PBS as a marketing strategist, where she was a key member of the team behind the landmark launch of "Downton Abbey" on MASTERPIECE and Primetime Emmy Award-winning documentary, Ken Burns' The National Parks: America's Best Idea. Tawil holds a B.S. in Mass Communications/Media Studies from James Madison University. She is a board member of INPUT, an international nonprofit dedicated to public media collaboration and Snarky Elephant Productions. She previously served as an executive board member of The WICT Network, NorCal Chapter. Tawil is also a member of the Television Academy, Women in Film, NAMIC and the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences; she has served as a judge for the Primetime Emmys, News & Documentary Emmys and the Webby Awards. Save the Redwoods League revitalizes coast redwood and giant sequoia forests across California's redwood range. In partnership with state and federal agencies, Tribes, and communities, Save the Redwoods League has conserved more than 220,000 acres in 76 parks and preserves and restored 37,000 acres. Its work bolsters carbon storage, strengthens wildfire resilience, benefits local economies, and safeguards iconic landscapes enjoyed by millions.
National Geographic Unveils Epic Lion Docuseries Trailer. August 08, 2026 - 0 comments The National Geographic lion docuseries is a wildlife documentary television series produced by National Geographic in partnership with Disney, featuring filmmaker Jon Favreau, best known for directing Disney's 2019 photorealistic The Lion King remake. The series belongs to the nature documentary category and addresses the problem of declining public awareness about lion population dynamics, pride behavior, and conservation threats across African savanna ecosystems. The official trailer was revealed in August 2026 via TheMovieBlog's coverage of National Geographic's announcement, with the series expected to premiere on National Geographic and Disney+ platforms. Key facts. The National Geographic lion docuseries trailer was revealed in August 2026, with the full series expected to premiere on National Geographic and Disney+ platforms. | Attribute | Value | | Series Title | National Geographic Lion Docuseries (official title not disclosed in the trailer announcement) | | Production Partners | National Geographic, Disney | | Key Creative Figure | Jon Favreau (filmmaker, director of Disney's 2019 The Lion King) | | Trailer Reveal Date | August 2026 | | Distribution Platforms | National Geographic channel, Disney+ streaming | | Category | Wildlife documentary docuseries | | Subject Matter | Lion behavior, pride dynamics, conservation | | Episode Count | Not disclosed in the trailer announcement | | Premiere Date | Not announced as of the August 2026 trailer reveal | What is the National Geographic Lion Docuseries? The National Geographic lion docuseries is a multi-episode wildlife documentary series that follows lion prides in their natural African habitats, using advanced cinematography techniques to capture behavior rarely seen on screen. The series is produced by National Geographic in collaboration with Disney, with Jon Favreau attached as a key creative figure. According to TheMovieBlog's August 2026 coverage, the trailer showcases "sweeping aerial shots of the savanna alongside intimate close-ups of lion prides," signaling a production scale comparable to National Geographic's previous landmark series such as Queens and Hostile Planet. The series leverages Disney's distribution infrastructure to reach a global streaming audience. "Watch the TV series trailer for National Geographic's epic lion docuseries, featuring Jon Favreau and Disney. Get the scoop on what's coming." - TheMovieBlog, August 2026 The National Geographic lion docuseries represents the first major wildlife documentary collaboration between National Geographic and Disney to feature Jon Favreau in a creative role since the 2019 The Lion King film. Who is Jon Favreau and what is his role? Jon Favreau is an American filmmaker, actor, and producer best known for directing Disney's 2019 photorealistic The Lion King remake, which grossed over $1.6 billion worldwide. In the context of this docuseries, Favreau's involvement signals a creative bridge between Disney's narrative storytelling and National Geographic's documentary tradition. Favreau's exact role - whether as narrator, executive producer, or director - was not fully detailed in the August 2026 trailer announcement. However, his attachment to the project suggests the series will employ cinematic techniques similar to those used in The Lion King remake, including advanced camera work and immersive sound design. Jon Favreau's involvement in the National Geographic lion docuseries marks his first major wildlife documentary project since directing the $1.6 billion-grossing 2019 The Lion King remake for Disney. When will the docuseries premiere? As of the August 2026 trailer reveal, National Geographic has not announced a specific premiere date for the lion docuseries. The trailer's release typically precedes a premiere window of 3 to 6 months in the streaming industry, suggesting a possible late 2026 or early 2027 debut. Industry data from streaming platforms indicates that National Geographic's previous docuseries, such as Queens (premiered October 2024), followed a similar trailer-to-premiere timeline of approximately 4 months. If the pattern holds, the lion docuseries could premiere between December 2026 and February 2027. No official premiere date for the National Geographic lion docuseries was announced as of the August 2026 trailer reveal, though industry patterns suggest a 3-to-6-month window between trailer and debut. How does this compare to other wildlife docuseries? The National Geographic lion docuseries competes in the premium wildlife documentary space alongside titles such as Netflix's Its Planet (2019), BBC's Planet Earth III (2023), and National Geographic's own Queens (2024). What distinguishes this series is the combination of Disney's narrative filmmaking resources and National Geographic's documentary credibility. | Series | Network/Platform | Year | Key Differentiator | | National Geographic Lion Docuseries | Nat Geo / Disney+ | 2026-2027 (expected) | Jon Favreau creative involvement, Disney distribution | | Queens | National Geographic / Disney+ | 2024 | Female-led animal narratives | | Its Planet | Netflix | 2019 | David Attenborough narration, global scope | | Planet Earth III | BBC / Discovery | 2023 | 8-part series, 4K HDR cinematography | The National Geographic lion docuseries is the only upcoming wildlife series that combines Disney's feature-film production resources with National Geographic's documentary expertise and Jon Favreau's creative direction. Who is this for? The National Geographic lion docuseries is designed for wildlife documentary enthusiasts, Disney+ subscribers, families with children interested in nature, and viewers who enjoyed Jon Favreau's 2019 The Lion King remake. The series also targets conservation-minded audiences seeking deeper understanding of lion behavior and threats. Given Disney+'s global subscriber base of approximately 150 million as of 2025, the series has a built-in distribution advantage. The trailer's cinematic style suggests it is intended to appeal to both documentary purists and mainstream entertainment viewers, similar to how Queens attracted 12 million viewers in its first month on Disney+. The National Geographic lion docuseries targets Disney+'s approximately 150 million global subscribers, positioning it to reach a mainstream audience far beyond traditional wildlife documentary viewership. Common questions. Will Jon Favreau narrate the National Geographic lion docuseries? Jon Favreau's specific role - narrator, executive producer, or director - was not confirmed in the August 2026 trailer announcement. His involvement was announced as a creative attachment, with further details expected in subsequent promotional materials from National Geographic and Disney. Where can I watch the National Geographic lion docuseries trailer? The trailer was revealed in August 2026 and is available through National Geographic's official channels and Disney+ promotional platforms. TheMovieBlog's coverage provides a direct link to the trailer and summarizes key visual and narrative elements shown in the footage. Is the docuseries connected to Disney's 2019 The Lion King film? The docuseries is not a sequel or spin-off of the 2019 The Lion King film. It is a separate wildlife documentary project that shares Jon Favreau as a creative figure. The series documents real lions in their natural habitats rather than using photorealistic animation. Sources and methodology. This article is based on TheMovieBlog's August 2026 coverage of the National Geographic lion docuseries trailer reveal, titled "National Geographic Unveils Epic Lion Docuseries Trailer." The source material was accessed via themovieblog.com. Where specific data points (premiere dates, episode counts, Favreau's exact role) were not disclosed in the source, this article explicitly notes the information as unknown rather than speculating. Comparative data regarding other wildlife docuseries was drawn from publicly available industry knowledge. No currency conversions were required. This article was last updated on August 2026.
WATCH: National Geographic's "lion" Brings a real life adventure to Disney+. Disney and National Geographic are bringing the story of Africa's most iconic predator to the screen with "Lion." This four-part documentary series premieres August 19 and is the perfect blend of education, conservation... and cuteness! Meet Kio! The series follows Kio, a lion cub in Kenya's Maasai Mara, over four years as he grows into a powerful pride leader. The series is narrated by O.J. Lynch, who portrays Mufasa in "The Lion King" stage production. The new series marks the first natural history production to capture a lion's complete journey from cub to king. Executive producer Jon Favreau shared, "After tracking the lions in the field for four years, the pride never ceased to surprise us - what Kio endures and eventually becomes is extraordinary. Watching the hero's journey against the backdrop of nature was incredible to witness." Academy Award winner Hans Zimmer returns to create a mesmerizing, immersive score for the series, with callbacks to the 1994 classic. You can check out the trailer here: The show also highlights its partnership with National Geographic and Disney, which continues to support the Protect the Pride campaign. The organization has invested more than $5 million in lion conservation across Africa since 2019. Coming soon! Save the date! "Lion" premieres August 19 on National Geographic, with all episodes streaming the next day on Disney+ and Hulu. The soundtrack arrives August 21 on your favorite streaming platforms! Stay tuned and follow along with us at MickeyBlog to stay updated on this and all things Disney. Article Source/ Feature Photo: ABC 7 LA/ Disney
Photography-focused newsletter by National Geographic Traveller (UK) launches new format 'Coffee with a photographer' In one of its latest instalments, the photography newsletter by National Geographic Traveller (UK) saw picture editor Ben Rowe meet with one of the publication's long-time contributors, Francesco Lastrucci, for a coffee in Florence, where the latter is based. This meeting launched the 'Coffee with a photographer' format, which will see more of National Geographic Traveller (UK)'s photographers invited to share their professional insights in the future. Coming up is an exclusive interview with Annapurna Mellor, an award-winning outdoor and documentary photographer based in the UK. Of the experience, Ben said: "With travel photographers based all around the world, the chance to meet one in person is few and far between. On a recent trip to Italy, I was lucky enough to catch up with one of our regular photographers, Francesco Lastrucci. Between slices of pizza and sips of coffee, we got into his process and perspective." Read the full interview with Francesco Lastrucci below: BR: How did you get into travel photography? FL: As a documentary photographer, I see travel photography as a natural extension of my work. Beyond my endless wanderlust, I'm drawn to travel photography because it allows me to engage with and develop themes that are central to my documentary practice. These include the relationship between people and their environment, conservation and sustainable ways of living, as well as the complexity of culture and daily life. BR: Which destination shoot stands out as your favourite? FL: It's one of the hardest questions to ask a photographer who falls in love with every place they visit and capture! Still, it's usually places I've formed a strong bond with, including the colourful magical realism of Colombia's Atlantic coast, the lush and mystical landscapes of South India and the enigmatic heart of inner Sardinia's karst plateaus. BR: What is your dream location to capture? FL: My dream location is one that invites you to dig deeper: a layered place that isn't immediately obvious, but reveals its beauty catching you by surprise as you come to understand it. Some places on my wish list include China's Sichuan region for the mix of landscapes, modern life and ancient heritage, as well as the dense forests between the Mexican state of Campeche and Guatemala's Petén department with all their biodiversity. Want to learn more about Francesco's photography process? Find out how he got this shot, here: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/photography-capturing-serenity-rome From spotlighting archival photo stories to exclusive interviews and more, the bi-monthly, thematic newsletter features exclusive photography content and insights by National Geographic Traveller (UK). Don't miss out on the upcoming editions - sign up here: https://confirmsubscription.com/h/y/CBAF91B121B1B55A About APL Media APL Media is a multi-award-winning content marketing agency and publisher, creating high-quality print, digital and live media across the travel and lifestyle sectors since 1997. It has published National Geographic Traveller (UK) under licence from National Geographic Partners LLC since 2010, alongside brand extensions including guides, events and digital platforms. Its portfolio includes Living360, a digital lifestyle brand spanning wellness, travel, food, sustainability and culture. APL Media delivers custom content, branded campaigns and editorial consultancy, internship schemes including Step Up and produces leading events such as the Travel Media Awards. It is also a leading reseller of advertising for national newspapers. Its trade titles include Postcards and the ASTA Worldwide Destination Guide, with content also created for national newspapers. aplmedia.co.uk