• Exciting, newly created opportunity
• Sole charge legal leadership role
• Innovative and successful business operating in NZ and global markets
• Auckland based

This is an exciting, newly created opportunity for a commercially savvy senior lawyer to join this innovative and successful business as its first General Counsel.

Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, you will establish the internal legal function developing systems and processes to proactively identify and manage risk, and provide timely, accurate and commercially focused legal advice and services on a broad range of strategic and day to day matters.

A primary focus of the role will involve drafting, negotiating and advising on commercial agreements both within New Zealand and across multiple international jurisdictions. You will take a leadership role in setting contractual frameworks and acceptable contract risk positions, and work closely with senior executives, bid leaders and project managers to ensure optimum contract outcomes are achieved, and projects are managed successfully. In addition, you will provide advice in other broader legal areas including property, dispute resolution, insurance, IP, HR, banking, compliance, regulatory and governance matters. You will keep the business updated on legal and regulatory requirements, contribute to business projects, deliver internal training on relevant issues, and manage external legal providers when required.

The ideal candidate will possess the following:

• A tertiary qualification in law and current NZ practising certificate (or eligibility to hold one)
• A minimum of 10 years’ PQE with a background in corporate/commercial law
• Sound understanding of contract law and the procurement process with experience negotiating, drafting and managing a range of contracts
• Generalist legal skills and the ability to deliver advice across diverse areas
• A high level of commercial awareness with a pragmatic, solutions focused approach
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to work with confidence and independence
• Excellent communication and relationship skills
• An authentic, positive and team-orientated working style

We are seeking a talented and enthusiastic lawyer, comfortable to step out from behind the desk, establish trust and credibility with senior executives and staff, and deliver positive commercial outcomes for the business. You will join a highly skilled and passionate team of professionals who enjoy a diverse and inclusive business culture in a thriving business with global dimensions. If you’re ready to make an real impact in this rare legal leadership role, this could be the ideal opportunity for you!

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Jennifer Williams at Williams Legal Recruitment on 027 220 8003 or email jw@williamslegalrecruitment.co.nz