Resume and JobRESUME AND JOB
McDonald's logo

Director, Legal Counsel Careers at McDonald's - Chicago, IL | Apply Now!

McDonald's

Director, Legal Counsel Careers at McDonald's - Chicago, IL | Apply Now!

full-timePosted: Feb 10, 2026

Job Description

Director, Legal Counsel Careers at McDonald's: Lead Global Legal Strategy

Are you a seasoned legal professional ready to shape the future of one of the world's most iconic brands? McDonald's is hiring a Director, Legal Counsel to drive strategic legal initiatives across its global operations. With restaurants in over 100 countries serving 70 million customers daily, McDonald's offers unparalleled opportunities for impact. This senior-level role in Chicago, IL, combines high-stakes decision-making, risk management, and partnership with executive leadership.

Why Join McDonald's Legal Team?

McDonald's isn't just a fast-food giant; it's a global corporation committed to inclusivity, service, integrity, community, and family. Our Corporate Legal team partners with global market legal groups, cross-functional leaders, and Technology & Operations teams to provide strategic support, ensure consistency, and lead risk management. As Director, Legal Counsel, you'll influence worldwide strategies while enjoying benefits like sabbaticals, tuition assistance, and flexible work.

Key Responsibilities of McDonald's Director, Legal Counsel

Your role will be pivotal in navigating complex legal landscapes:

  • Lead the seamless integration of global legal guidance into market and franchise execution strategies, ensuring alignment across diverse regions.
  • Develop robust legal frameworks that promote operational consistency and compliance in a multi-market environment.
  • Drive high-level strategic conversations around risk, compliance, governance, and adherence to global legal standards.
  • Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate legal risks associated with innovative business initiatives and expansions.
  • Champion governance processes, meticulously documenting emerging risks for executive review.
  • Foster partnerships with global and regional legal teams to harmonize risk and compliance practices.
  • Spearhead the drafting, review, and negotiation of high-impact commercial and operational agreements that power McDonald's growth.
  • Deliver timely, practical, and strategic legal counsel to business leaders facing critical decisions.
  • Influence senior stakeholders in high-stakes scenarios, providing insights that shape corporate direction.
  • Build enduring relationships with TPG partners, global attorneys, market counsel, and internal senior leaders.

Additional duties include advising on complex business environments, supporting change management with business-aligned solutions, serving as a trusted advisor, and communicating intricate legal concepts clearly to non-legal audiences. You'll also contribute to strategic operational and business planning discussions.

Essential Qualifications for Success

To thrive, candidates need:

  • A Juris Doctor (JD) and bar passage in at least one US state.
  • 6-10 years of relevant legal experience, ideally in-house.
  • Proven expertise in complex legal matters, commercial negotiations, and governance.
  • Strong cross-functional leadership and stakeholder influence skills.
  • Ability to thrive in ambiguity while leading strategic initiatives.
  • Exceptional communication, writing, and analytical abilities.
  • Experience in global/multi-market organizations, franchising, operations, tech, or regulatory fields.

McDonald's Benefits: More Than Just a Job

Joining McDonald's means accessing top-tier perks: competitive salary ($250K-$400K est.), bonuses, 401(k) matching, sabbaticals, tuition aid, flexible work, health coverage, parental leave, discounts, wellness programs, and more. We're committed to your growth and well-being.

Career Growth in McDonald's Legal Department

This role offers exposure to global franchising, tech integrations, and regulatory challenges. Advance to VP-level positions while impacting initiatives like Ronald McDonald House Charities and sustainability. Our culture emphasizes big thinking and worldwide influence.

McDonald's Director Legal Counsel Salary Insights

Expect $250,000-$400,000 annually, plus incentives, based on experience. Chicago's vibrant legal scene and corporate HQ make it ideal.

Apply for Director, Legal Counsel at McDonald's Today

Ready to lead legal strategy at a Fortune 500 icon? Search no further. McDonald's values diverse talent driving positive change. Apply now for this Chicago opportunity or explore remote options.

Keywords: McDonald's legal jobs, Director Legal Counsel careers, in-house counsel McDonald's, global legal strategy roles.

Locations

  • Chicago, Illinois, USA
  • New York, New York, USA
  • Atlanta, Georgia, USA
  • Remote, N/A, USA (Remote)

Salary

Estimated Salary Rangehigh confidence

262,500 - 440,000 USD / yearly

Source: ai estimated

* This is an estimated range based on market data and may vary based on experience and qualifications.

Skills Required

  • Legal Risk Managementintermediate
  • Commercial Contract Negotiationintermediate
  • Global Compliance Frameworksintermediate
  • Corporate Governanceintermediate
  • Strategic Legal Counselingintermediate
  • Cross-Functional Leadershipintermediate
  • Franchise Law Expertiseintermediate
  • Regulatory Complianceintermediate
  • Stakeholder Influenceintermediate
  • Change Management Advisoryintermediate
  • High-Impact Agreement Draftingintermediate
  • Multi-Market Legal Strategyintermediate

Required Qualifications

  • Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school and active bar passage required (experience)
  • 6-10 years of progressive legal experience in corporate or in-house environments (experience)
  • Proven track record handling complex commercial negotiations and governance issues (experience)
  • Strong experience supporting global or multi-market organizations (experience)
  • Prior in-house counsel experience at a Fortune 500 company strongly preferred (experience)
  • Expertise in franchising, corporate operations, technology, or regulatory environments (experience)
  • Exceptional cross-functional leadership skills with ability to influence senior executives (experience)
  • Superior communication, analytical, and writing skills for complex legal concepts (experience)
  • Demonstrated ability to manage ambiguity and lead strategic legal initiatives (experience)
  • Experience partnering with technology, operations, and franchise teams (experience)

Responsibilities

  • Lead integration of global legal guidance into market and franchise execution strategies across 100+ countries
  • Develop and implement comprehensive legal frameworks to ensure consistency in operations worldwide
  • Drive strategic conversations on risk management, compliance, governance, and global legal standards
  • Identify, assess, and proactively mitigate legal risks tied to innovative business initiatives
  • Support and lead corporate governance processes, including documentation of emerging risks
  • Partner closely with global and regional legal teams to align risk and compliance practices
  • Lead drafting, review, and negotiation of high-impact commercial and operational agreements
  • Provide timely, practical, and strategic legal counsel to senior business leaders
  • Influence high-stakes decision-making by advising executive stakeholders effectively
  • Build and maintain strong partnerships with TPG, global attorneys, market counsel, and internal leaders
  • Advise business partners on applying legal guidance in complex, evolving environments
  • Support organizational change management with clear, business-aligned legal solutions
  • Serve as trusted advisor to senior business and legal leadership on strategic matters

Benefits

  • general: Competitive base salary with performance-based bonuses and equity opportunities
  • general: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance with low employee premiums
  • general: Generous 401(k) retirement plan with company matching up to 6%
  • general: Paid sabbatical program after qualifying years of service
  • general: Tuition assistance and reimbursement for continuing legal education
  • general: Flexible work arrangements including hybrid and remote options
  • general: Paid parental leave and family-friendly benefits
  • general: Employee discounts at McDonald's restaurants worldwide
  • general: Wellness programs including gym memberships and mental health support
  • general: Volunteer time off and matching for charitable contributions
  • general: Relocation assistance for qualifying positions
  • general: Professional development budget for conferences and certifications

Target Your Resume for "Director, Legal Counsel Careers at McDonald's - Chicago, IL | Apply Now!" , McDonald's

Get personalized recommendations to optimize your resume specifically for Director, Legal Counsel Careers at McDonald's - Chicago, IL | Apply Now!. Takes only 15 seconds!

AI-powered keyword optimization
Skills matching & gap analysis
Experience alignment suggestions

Check Your ATS Score for "Director, Legal Counsel Careers at McDonald's - Chicago, IL | Apply Now!" , McDonald's

Find out how well your resume matches this job's requirements. Get comprehensive analysis including ATS compatibility, keyword matching, skill gaps, and personalized recommendations.

ATS compatibility check
Keyword optimization analysis
Skill matching & gap identification
Format & readability score

Tags & Categories

legalcorporatein-houseglobalfranchiserisk managementMcDonald's jobsMcDonald's Director Legal Counsel jobsDirector Legal Counsel careers Chicagoin-house counsel McDonald's USAglobal legal strategy McDonald'sfranchise law attorney jobssenior legal counsel corporate jobsMcDonald's legal department careersDirector Legal Counsel salary McDonald'scorporate governance lawyer McDonald'srisk management legal jobs fast foodcommercial contracts attorney McDonald'sJD bar passage legal jobs USA6-10 years legal experience careersMcDonald's Chicago legal jobssenior in-house counsel opportunitiesglobal compliance lawyer McDonald'stechnology legal counsel jobsregulatory counsel McDonald's careersexecutive legal advisor positionsMcDonald's franchise legal rolesstrategic legal counsel USA jobsDirector Legal McDonald's apply nowFood ServiceRestaurantRetail

Answer 10 quick questions to check your fit for Director, Legal Counsel Careers at McDonald's - Chicago, IL | Apply Now! @ McDonald's.

Quiz Challenge
10 Questions
~2 Minutes
Instant Score

Related Books and Jobs

No related jobs found at the moment.

McDonald's logo

Director, Legal Counsel Careers at McDonald's - Chicago, IL | Apply Now!

McDonald's

Director, Legal Counsel Careers at McDonald's - Chicago, IL | Apply Now!

full-timePosted: Feb 10, 2026

Job Description

Director, Legal Counsel Careers at McDonald's: Lead Global Legal Strategy

Are you a seasoned legal professional ready to shape the future of one of the world's most iconic brands? McDonald's is hiring a Director, Legal Counsel to drive strategic legal initiatives across its global operations. With restaurants in over 100 countries serving 70 million customers daily, McDonald's offers unparalleled opportunities for impact. This senior-level role in Chicago, IL, combines high-stakes decision-making, risk management, and partnership with executive leadership.

Why Join McDonald's Legal Team?

McDonald's isn't just a fast-food giant; it's a global corporation committed to inclusivity, service, integrity, community, and family. Our Corporate Legal team partners with global market legal groups, cross-functional leaders, and Technology & Operations teams to provide strategic support, ensure consistency, and lead risk management. As Director, Legal Counsel, you'll influence worldwide strategies while enjoying benefits like sabbaticals, tuition assistance, and flexible work.

Key Responsibilities of McDonald's Director, Legal Counsel

Your role will be pivotal in navigating complex legal landscapes:

  • Lead the seamless integration of global legal guidance into market and franchise execution strategies, ensuring alignment across diverse regions.
  • Develop robust legal frameworks that promote operational consistency and compliance in a multi-market environment.
  • Drive high-level strategic conversations around risk, compliance, governance, and adherence to global legal standards.
  • Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate legal risks associated with innovative business initiatives and expansions.
  • Champion governance processes, meticulously documenting emerging risks for executive review.
  • Foster partnerships with global and regional legal teams to harmonize risk and compliance practices.
  • Spearhead the drafting, review, and negotiation of high-impact commercial and operational agreements that power McDonald's growth.
  • Deliver timely, practical, and strategic legal counsel to business leaders facing critical decisions.
  • Influence senior stakeholders in high-stakes scenarios, providing insights that shape corporate direction.
  • Build enduring relationships with TPG partners, global attorneys, market counsel, and internal senior leaders.

Additional duties include advising on complex business environments, supporting change management with business-aligned solutions, serving as a trusted advisor, and communicating intricate legal concepts clearly to non-legal audiences. You'll also contribute to strategic operational and business planning discussions.

Essential Qualifications for Success

To thrive, candidates need:

  • A Juris Doctor (JD) and bar passage in at least one US state.
  • 6-10 years of relevant legal experience, ideally in-house.
  • Proven expertise in complex legal matters, commercial negotiations, and governance.
  • Strong cross-functional leadership and stakeholder influence skills.
  • Ability to thrive in ambiguity while leading strategic initiatives.
  • Exceptional communication, writing, and analytical abilities.
  • Experience in global/multi-market organizations, franchising, operations, tech, or regulatory fields.

McDonald's Benefits: More Than Just a Job

Joining McDonald's means accessing top-tier perks: competitive salary ($250K-$400K est.), bonuses, 401(k) matching, sabbaticals, tuition aid, flexible work, health coverage, parental leave, discounts, wellness programs, and more. We're committed to your growth and well-being.

Career Growth in McDonald's Legal Department

This role offers exposure to global franchising, tech integrations, and regulatory challenges. Advance to VP-level positions while impacting initiatives like Ronald McDonald House Charities and sustainability. Our culture emphasizes big thinking and worldwide influence.

McDonald's Director Legal Counsel Salary Insights

Expect $250,000-$400,000 annually, plus incentives, based on experience. Chicago's vibrant legal scene and corporate HQ make it ideal.

Apply for Director, Legal Counsel at McDonald's Today

Ready to lead legal strategy at a Fortune 500 icon? Search no further. McDonald's values diverse talent driving positive change. Apply now for this Chicago opportunity or explore remote options.

Keywords: McDonald's legal jobs, Director Legal Counsel careers, in-house counsel McDonald's, global legal strategy roles.

Locations

  • Chicago, Illinois, USA
  • New York, New York, USA
  • Atlanta, Georgia, USA
  • Remote, N/A, USA (Remote)

Salary

Estimated Salary Rangehigh confidence

262,500 - 440,000 USD / yearly

Source: ai estimated

* This is an estimated range based on market data and may vary based on experience and qualifications.

Skills Required

  • Legal Risk Managementintermediate
  • Commercial Contract Negotiationintermediate
  • Global Compliance Frameworksintermediate
  • Corporate Governanceintermediate
  • Strategic Legal Counselingintermediate
  • Cross-Functional Leadershipintermediate
  • Franchise Law Expertiseintermediate
  • Regulatory Complianceintermediate
  • Stakeholder Influenceintermediate
  • Change Management Advisoryintermediate
  • High-Impact Agreement Draftingintermediate
  • Multi-Market Legal Strategyintermediate

Required Qualifications

  • Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school and active bar passage required (experience)
  • 6-10 years of progressive legal experience in corporate or in-house environments (experience)
  • Proven track record handling complex commercial negotiations and governance issues (experience)
  • Strong experience supporting global or multi-market organizations (experience)
  • Prior in-house counsel experience at a Fortune 500 company strongly preferred (experience)
  • Expertise in franchising, corporate operations, technology, or regulatory environments (experience)
  • Exceptional cross-functional leadership skills with ability to influence senior executives (experience)
  • Superior communication, analytical, and writing skills for complex legal concepts (experience)
  • Demonstrated ability to manage ambiguity and lead strategic legal initiatives (experience)
  • Experience partnering with technology, operations, and franchise teams (experience)

Responsibilities

  • Lead integration of global legal guidance into market and franchise execution strategies across 100+ countries
  • Develop and implement comprehensive legal frameworks to ensure consistency in operations worldwide
  • Drive strategic conversations on risk management, compliance, governance, and global legal standards
  • Identify, assess, and proactively mitigate legal risks tied to innovative business initiatives
  • Support and lead corporate governance processes, including documentation of emerging risks
  • Partner closely with global and regional legal teams to align risk and compliance practices
  • Lead drafting, review, and negotiation of high-impact commercial and operational agreements
  • Provide timely, practical, and strategic legal counsel to senior business leaders
  • Influence high-stakes decision-making by advising executive stakeholders effectively
  • Build and maintain strong partnerships with TPG, global attorneys, market counsel, and internal leaders
  • Advise business partners on applying legal guidance in complex, evolving environments
  • Support organizational change management with clear, business-aligned legal solutions
  • Serve as trusted advisor to senior business and legal leadership on strategic matters

Benefits

  • general: Competitive base salary with performance-based bonuses and equity opportunities
  • general: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance with low employee premiums
  • general: Generous 401(k) retirement plan with company matching up to 6%
  • general: Paid sabbatical program after qualifying years of service
  • general: Tuition assistance and reimbursement for continuing legal education
  • general: Flexible work arrangements including hybrid and remote options
  • general: Paid parental leave and family-friendly benefits
  • general: Employee discounts at McDonald's restaurants worldwide
  • general: Wellness programs including gym memberships and mental health support
  • general: Volunteer time off and matching for charitable contributions
  • general: Relocation assistance for qualifying positions
  • general: Professional development budget for conferences and certifications

Target Your Resume for "Director, Legal Counsel Careers at McDonald's - Chicago, IL | Apply Now!" , McDonald's

Get personalized recommendations to optimize your resume specifically for Director, Legal Counsel Careers at McDonald's - Chicago, IL | Apply Now!. Takes only 15 seconds!

AI-powered keyword optimization
Skills matching & gap analysis
Experience alignment suggestions

Check Your ATS Score for "Director, Legal Counsel Careers at McDonald's - Chicago, IL | Apply Now!" , McDonald's

Find out how well your resume matches this job's requirements. Get comprehensive analysis including ATS compatibility, keyword matching, skill gaps, and personalized recommendations.

ATS compatibility check
Keyword optimization analysis
Skill matching & gap identification
Format & readability score

Tags & Categories

legalcorporatein-houseglobalfranchiserisk managementMcDonald's jobsMcDonald's Director Legal Counsel jobsDirector Legal Counsel careers Chicagoin-house counsel McDonald's USAglobal legal strategy McDonald'sfranchise law attorney jobssenior legal counsel corporate jobsMcDonald's legal department careersDirector Legal Counsel salary McDonald'scorporate governance lawyer McDonald'srisk management legal jobs fast foodcommercial contracts attorney McDonald'sJD bar passage legal jobs USA6-10 years legal experience careersMcDonald's Chicago legal jobssenior in-house counsel opportunitiesglobal compliance lawyer McDonald'stechnology legal counsel jobsregulatory counsel McDonald's careersexecutive legal advisor positionsMcDonald's franchise legal rolesstrategic legal counsel USA jobsDirector Legal McDonald's apply nowFood ServiceRestaurantRetail

Answer 10 quick questions to check your fit for Director, Legal Counsel Careers at McDonald's - Chicago, IL | Apply Now! @ McDonald's.

Quiz Challenge
10 Questions
~2 Minutes
Instant Score

Related Books and Jobs

No related jobs found at the moment.