Associate General Counsel

Job Description

Hand & Stone Franchise Corporation is currently seeking an Associate General Counsel to support its Corporate Legal functions. As a key member of the legal team, the Associate General Counsel is responsible for providing legal advice and support on all aspects of franchising operations and administration, as well as regulatory compliance, corporate transactions, trademarks, and contract drafting, review and management. The ideal candidate has experience in franchise and corporate law, as well as a business-oriented mindset, to drive strategic growth while managing legal risk.

This role is hybrid working out of our suburban Philadelphia office 3 days a week, 2 days remotely.

Key Responsibilities:

•\tDraft, review, and negotiate franchise disclosure documents (FDDs), franchise agreements, area development agreements, and related amendments.

•\tEnsure compliance with federal and state franchise laws (e.g., FTC Franchise Rule, state registration and renewal requirements).

•\tSupport international franchising by advising on regulatory requirements and coordinating with local counsel.

•\tAdvise on franchise sales and marketing practices to ensure legal compliance.

•\tProvide guidance on franchisee relationship issues, including terminations, renewals, transfers, and enforcement of system standards.

•\tHandle pre-litigation franchisee disputes and coordinate with outside counsel on litigation matters.

•\tPartner with the business team on franchise development, brand protection, and operational initiatives.

•\tAssist in training and educating internal stakeholders on franchise legal matters and compliance best practices.

•\tSupport M&A activity involving franchise systems or operations.

•\tMonitor legal developments in franchising and update company policies and documents as necessary.

•\tManage Franchisor’s trademarks.

•\tDraft, review and negotiate a wide range of contracts.

•\tManage outside counsel relationships and work as needed.

•\tProvide legal counsel on corporate governance and risk management.

Qualifications:

•\tJ.D. from an accredited law school and active license to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.

•\tMinimum of 5–8 years of legal experience, with a strong background in franchise law, corporate law, contracts, and regulatory compliance.

•\tIn-house experience with a franchised company or law firm experience supporting franchisors strongly preferred.

•\tStrong business judgment, excellent drafting skills, and ability to manage multiple priorities.

•\tEffective communicator with the ability to work collaboratively across departments.

Preferred Attributes:

•\tStrategic thinker with a proactive, problem-solving approach.

•\tComfortable operating in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.

•\tHigh integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism.

About Hand & Stone:

Hand & Stone is the fastest-growing massage and facial franchise in the United States. Hand and Stone Franchise was launched in 2005 by founder John Marco, and the brand now boasts over 600 locations in the U.S. and Canada. We are the industry leader in providing quality, affordable membership-based massage and facial services.

Hand & Stone works hard to create a great culture for our corporate team, corporate owned spas, and our system of franchises around the country. We value hard work, but we also recognize the humanity of each of our employees and do our best to meet our people where they are. We thrive on recognizing and rewarding our team for their accomplishments and continue to grow as a brand and regularly create new growth opportunities for our people as well.

Our Company Mission:

Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa is a brand built and supported by professionals passionately dedicated to providing superior massage and facial experiences at an affordable price. Hand & Stone Franchise Corp. is dedicated to helping driven and motivated entrepreneurs pursue a balanced lifestyle with our supportive and fulfilling franchise opportunities.

What We Offer:

•\tHigh growth opportunities in a thriving brand.

•\tProfessional training, development, and continuing education opportunities.

•\tEmployer contribution to health, dental, and vision insurance

•\t401(k) + match

•\tFree monthly massage or facial service

•\tGenerous Paid Time Off and Holidays

Hand & Stone Franchise Corp. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.