VP, Legal Corporate Development

Are you looking to be part of a high-performing team of go-getters who make a difference both on and off the court? Join the Detroit Pistons as we harness the power of basketball to unite our city, elevate our fans, and drive lasting community impact.

We are seeking an accomplished legal executive to lead complex business transactions, real estate matters and strategic legal initiatives while building trusted relationships across the organization and with external stakeholders.

The VP, Legal Corporate Development will serve as a senior advisor to executive leadership, providing commercially minded legal counsel on corporate development, real estate acquisitions and dispositions, development-related transactions, partnerships and other business arrangements. 

The ideal candidate brings the judgment and deal-making experience of a senior law firm partner or seasoned in-house transactional leader, exceptional legal writing and analytical skills, and the ability to establish and sustain productive relationships with clients, business partners, municipal officials and civic leaders.

 What You'll Be Doing

• Lead and negotiate complex corporate and commercial transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, joint ventures, strategic investments, and development agreements.
• Oversee real estate transactions from structuring and due diligence through negotiation, financing, closing, and post-closing obligations.
• Serve as a strategic legal advisor to executive leadership, providing practical guidance on corporate development, business opportunities, and organizational initiatives.
• Draft, review, and negotiate sophisticated transaction documents, commercial agreements, and executive-level legal recommendations.
• Advise on corporate partnerships, sponsorships, vendor agreements, and other revenue-generating arrangements, including applicable NBA rules and policies.
• Build and maintain relationships with developers, lenders, outside counsel, municipal officials, civic leaders, and external business partners.
• Partner with internal teams and government stakeholders on development approvals, permitting, public-private initiatives, and related matters.
• Evaluate legal, regulatory, financial, and reputational risks while developing commercially sound solutions that support business objectives.
• Lead outside counsel and cross-functional transaction teams, ensuring effective coordination, timely execution, and successful deal closings.