Jay Kim is a Partner with our In-House Counsel Recruiting, based in the San Francisco office. She focuses on identifying the best candidates for a wide range of positions from general counsel and AGC/DGCs to compliance and intellectual property roles in organizations from start-ups to F500 companies.Living in the Bay Area (since 1989), Jay has developed a particular expertise in the needs of the life sciences and technology industries—knowing how to zero in on the right candidates from a select nationwide pool. Her dedication to engraining herself in her client’s culture and her true commitment to finding the best person for their teams results in long-term matches that thrive within even the most unique environments.
Jay has a deep passion and understanding for diversity. She is a member of our In-House Diversity & Inclusion Committee, a group of talented recruiters dedicated to attracting, developing and retaining diverse talent for our clients and our own organization. She counsels her clients on the importance of building a diverse team and, in turn, endeavors to submit a diverse slate for every search. Jay is also a regular speaker and contributor to several diversity organizations, not only sharing her experience but also providing guidance and support to members to help them find career success and fulfillment. Since joining the firm in April 2011, the majority of her placements have been diversity candidates.
Jay was born and raised in Korea. She is passionate about food, especially fusion food involving kimchi. She can be found taking advantage of the lively culinary scene in the Bay Area and beyond, from dives to Michelins. To balance her love of food, she enjoys yoga.
Jay started her legal career working as a litigator for five years at Gordon & Rees as an associate and with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals as a legal affairs staff attorney. After practicing law, she opened a small business and explored her creative side in music and fashion while traveling extensively. She then moved into recruiting at another global search firm before joining Major, Lindsey & Africa.
Jay’s experience as a practicing lawyer and legal recruiter has made her very knowledgeable about lawyers, their motivations and their transferrable skills. This understanding of people in the profession allows her to immerse herself into every search, learning all she can about the industry and business dynamics to pair the right personalities and skill sets with a role.
University of California, Hastings College of the Law: J.D.
San Francisco State University: B.A., magna cum laude
Phi Beta Kappa
