Director, Legal & Business Affairs and Research

Reports To: Chief Legal Officer 
Location: A1 Office – Gainesville, FL  
Direct Reports: N/A 
Salary / FLSA: $120,000-160,000, Exempt 

About Athletes First
Athletes First is a full-service athlete management firm that has been representing elite NFL players since its inception in 2001. Based in Southern California, with satellite offices in New York City, NY, Gainesville, FL, and Atlanta, GA. Athletes First is a staple in the sports representation business. Over the years, we've created a culture built around the two key components of our industry: exude extreme power while remaining intimately personal. Our mission is simple: Do the right things, with the right people, for the right reasons. 

Role Overview
Athletes First is seeking a driven and detail-oriented attorney with strong analytical skills and a genuine passion for sports. In this role, you will work closely with Athletes First's Coaches and Executive department and Chief Legal Officer to support a wide range of legal and strategic initiatives. Core responsibilities include assisting with coaching and front office contract negotiations, building and maintaining a comprehensive database of contract terms - both financial and non-financial - to track market trends and identify new ways to deliver value for our clients. You will also play an active role in client recruiting efforts, interview preparation, and the development of pitch decks, as well as contribute to broader department projects and initiatives as they arise. 
 
Key Responsibilities & Duties 

• Negotiate contractual terms on behalf of our agents in connection with coaching and executive client contracts 
• Conduct in-depth employment contract research and analysis across the NFL, NCAA, and other sports verticals to identify trends, benchmark terms, and develop best practices 
• Perform client and industry research and data analysis to inform deal strategy and support agent decision-making 
• Develop tailored, client-specific materials to support agents' recruiting efforts and advance clients' careers 
• Draft and negotiate client representation agreements 
• Assist with dispute resolution efforts as needed 
  

Qualifications 

• J.D. from an accredited law school required 
• 2–5 years of experience as a practicing attorney 
• Experience at a top-tier law firm strongly preferred 
• Background in sports or entertainment law a plus 
• Demonstrated ability to leverage AI tools in a professional setting 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and familiarity with emerging AI technologies 
• Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail 
• High level of discretion when handling confidential client and deal information 
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively across a wide range of contacts including clients, agents, internal partners, and legal counterparties 
• Self-directed and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously without sacrificing quality 
• Collaborative by nature, with a team-first approach when working alongside agents and legal staff 
• Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment 
• Flexibility to work full-time hours, including occasional evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed 

What We Offer 

• Medical, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance 
• 401k Retirement Plan 
• Cell Phone Reimbursement 
• Flexible PTO 
• Exposure to the highest levels of professional sports and a front-row seat working alongside elite athletes, coaches, and front office executives 

Athletes First is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.