We represent senior executives, fund managers, and board members in negotiating their employment, severance, equity, and other compensation arrangements.
Employment Terms for Your Success
For individuals considering joining a company or fund, we have the experience and market knowledge to know what is negotiable and how you may be able to improve the deal on the table. Negotiating your employment terms will ensure that the agreements you sign are not unfairly one-sided and that you are protected from being terminated arbitrarily or without adequate compensation. We will also ensure that the agreement that you sign does not unfairly restrict your activities after you leave and that you are adequately protected from personal liability.
Board Membership Rewards
As professionals grow in their careers and build personal brands, the opportunity to join a company board may present itself. Directors of companies often owe fiduciary duties to the company and their stakeholders and could be held personally liable for certain obligations. We help you ask the right questions and investigate the opportunity and the company to ensure goal alignment and surface potential risks. We will ensure that you are adequately indemnified and help you understand what may and may not be covered by the company’s insurance policies. We also provide advice on offered equity and compensation arrangements and ensure that the equity package is structured in a tax-efficient manner.
Founder Interest Protection
Startup founders often experience a loss of leverage and control as their companies grow and take on investment. Company counsel represents the company’s interests, which often does not match a founder’s interests. Protecting your compensation package and control rights as you grow your company is paramount to personal and familial financial success. We will work with you at the formation stage, as well as in future funding or restructuring, to establish foundational frameworks that protect your interests. We will also work with you, company counsel, and investor counsel as your company takes on investment to ensure your interests are protected and fairly balanced with the investors’ interests and concerns.
Exit Strategies When the Time Is Right
When it’s time to leave a company, board, or fund either at your request or involuntarily, we will help you assess your rights and obligations. In addition, we will guide you through developing an exit strategy that includes negotiating a fair exit package and avoiding pitfalls that can cause reputational harm.
