Gonzaga University (Gonzaga) invites applications and nominations for the position of Vice President and General Counsel (VPGC). The Vice President and General Counsel serves as Gonzaga’s chief legal officer, a member of President Katia Passerini’s Cabinet, and Secretary of the Corporation.
Gonzaga seeks a highly accomplished and seasoned attorney who is a creative strategist, a forward- looking problem solver, and a thought partner and collaborator with demonstrated expertise in delivering proactive, strategic counsel on a wide range of complex legal, regulatory and policy matters. The Vice President and General Counsel will have professional and personal qualities that inspire confidence and trust and the capacity to lead and advise in an innovative and complex higher education environment.
Located in Spokane, Washington, Gonzaga University is a private Jesuit, Catholic university founded in 1887. Known for its strong commitment to academic excellence, faith, and service, Gonzaga offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across the liberal arts, business, education, engineering and applied science, health sciences, law, and leadership studies.
Minimum and desired qualifications along with additional information about the position and Gonzaga University can be found in the leadership profile above.
The salary range for this position is $250,000 to $360,000. Appointment at or near the top of the salary range will be reserved for candidates with exceptional qualifications and demonstrated leadership excellence. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certifications, geographic location, etc. This role may be eligible for additional compensation based on merit and/or achievement of specific goals.
The University provides a highly competitive benefits package to employees that includes a PPO Medical plan administered by Premera Blue Cross, Delta Dental, vision coverage through VSP, employer-paid Life Insurance, and optional employee-paid Life Insurance through Lincoln Financial, Employee Assistance Program through Supportlinc, and the Zagfit Wellness program that includes access to GU’s onsite fitness center. Focusing on the whole person, Gonzaga provides retirement savings plans via TIAA 403(b) and 457 vehicles that include a substantial contribution match and custom financial planning and advising. Additional benefits such as long-term Disability and Tuition Waivers are available after the first year of employment. Full-time staff employees at the executive level enjoy time away benefits that include vacation time immediately available at 22 days per year, 17 paid holidays, and accrual of sick leave of up to 96 hours per year.
AGB Search is pleased to assist Gonzaga University with this search. To apply for the Vice President and General Counsel position, candidates are requested to submit the following: (i) Resume or curriculum vitae; (ii) A letter of interest that addresses how the candidate’s experiences and qualifications connect with the required/desired qualifications and leadership opportunities as expressed in this position profile; and (iii) Contact information for five references (to be contacted with candidate’s permission at a later date). For best consideration, applications should be submitted by January 5, 2026, to the AGB Search portal at: Gonzaga University Vice President and General Counsel. The search will remain open until an appointment is made. Nominations and expressions of interest in the Vice President and General Counsel position are encouraged. Please direct them to GonzagaGC@agbsearch.com or the AGB Search consultants listed below:
Kimberly Templeton, JD Principal kimberly.templeton@agbsearch.com 540.761.9494
Fred Moore, JD, MBA Senior Executive Search Consultant fred.moore@agbsearch.com 712.299.544
Anne Hoffman Executive Search Associate anne.hoffman@agbsearch.com 805.490.9161
Gonzaga University is a Jesuit, Catholic, humanistic institution, and is therefore interested in candidates who will contribute to its distinctive mission. Gonzaga University is a committed EEO/AA employer and diversity candidates are encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their disability status and/or protected veteran status. Applicants with disabilities needing reasonable accommodations to complete the application or hiring process should contact Human Resources (509) 313-5996.
