Counsel (Litigation)

**Term**: Permanent, Full-Time
**Division/Branch**: Legal Services Division
**Application Deadline**: April 30, 2025
**Pay Level**: 13/14
**Pay Range**: $142,113 to $195,405 *commensurate with experience*
**Work Location**: Head Office, Toronto, ON; Hybrid
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is a dynamic, innovative regulatory agency responsible for delivering comprehensive regulatory oversight of Ontario’s alcohol, cannabis, gaming, and horse racing industries. We work every day to deliver first-class regulatory services to ensure the industries we regulate are conducted with honesty, integrity, and in the public interest.
The AGCO is seeking a Legal Counsel to join our Litigation team, reporting to the Legal Director, Litigation.
The Legal Services Division of the AGCO provides a broad range of legal services such as preparing legal documentation to support regulatory decisions, representing the Registrar at Tribunal and Court proceedings, providing advice and opinions to the Registrar and AGCO staff on corporate and administrative law issues, drafting contracts, assisting with the process of drafting legislation and assisting in policy development.
Under the direction of the Legal Director, Litigation, Litigation Counsel will:

- Regularly represent the AGCO in litigation under various legislative frameworks, including at Tribunals, and on appeals and judicial reviews at the Divisional Court and Court of Appeal for Ontario.
- Provide legal advice on compliance and eligibility matters, including the issuance of legal documents, such as Letters of Incident, Orders, Notices of Proposal, Rulings, Administrative Monetary Penalties, contracts, policies, and other documents to support the Registrar’s mandate.
- Contribute to corporate initiatives and special projects, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders, including other government agencies, the public, and law enforcement, on behalf of the Registrar.
- Provide strategic legal advice to support AGCO’s operations and regulatory processes.
- Relevant Experience: 5 years plus legal experience working within the public service, a regulatory environment, or a regulated entity is highly preferred.
- Litigation Expertise: Proven experience in administrative law litigation, with a strong track record of handling complex cases.
- Knowledge: Familiarity with the sectors regulated by the AGCO and an understanding of the legislation it administers. Familiarity with administrative law is preferred.
- Judgement and Decision-Making: Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment and provide well-reasoned legal advice in complex situations, often under tight deadlines.
- Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships, collaborate effectively in team settings, and engage with diverse stakeholders.
- Communication Skills: Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain legal concepts and recommendations to a variety of audiences.
- Adaptability: Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, with a willingness to adapt to changing priorities and evolving challenges.

**Job Requirements**:

- Licensure: Membership in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario.
- Travel Requirements: Ability and willingness to travel as required.

Why should you join the AGCO Legal Services Division?
- Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: The AGCO is an equal opportunity employer, fostering a culture that celebrates and promotes diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace.
- Supportive Work Environment: We are committed to creating a work environment where every staff member’s contributions are respected and valued. We prioritize opportunities for growth, development, and professional achievement.
- A World-Class Regulator: Join an award-winning, innovative, and socially responsible organization recognized as a leader in regulatory practices. The AGCO is proactive and committed to excellence across all areas of its work.
- Culture of Respect and Balance: The Legal Division promotes a culture of respect, collegiality, and mentorship, where you will find a healthy balance between your professional and personal life.
- Professional Development: We recognize the importance of continuing legal education and offer opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
- Comprehensive Benefits: We offer an extensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision care, paramedical services, parental leave top-up, a defined benefit pension plan, and a wide range of well-being programs designed to support your overall health and work-life balance.

The AGCO is an inclusive and equal opportunity employer.
Disability related accommodation during the recruitment process is available upon request.