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Legal Counsel - Full-Time - Wellington or Auckland

In-House Job Hub » Legal Counsel - Full-Time - Wellington or Auckland

Legal Counsel

  • Make your mark in high-impact, meaningful legal work
  • Enjoy flexibility and a genuinely supportive team culture
  • Be a trusted advisor at the heart of New Zealand’s capital markets


Step into a role where your legal expertise makes a tangible difference. This is your chance to contribute to work that shapes the future of New Zealand’s financial landscape, while building a rewarding and dynamic career.

 

About the role

Smart is looking for an engaged, forward-thinking lawyer to join their legal team as Legal Counsel / Corporate Solicitor (Funds Management). You’ll be part of a collaborative, high-performing team, delivering quality legal advice across a wide variety of commercial matters in funds management and financial advisory services.

Working closely with the Smart General Counsel and Smart’s leadership team, you’ll provide guidance on contracts, companies and securities law, licensing and compliance, regulatory filings, M&A, litigation, and broader commercial legal issues. You’ll also liaise with regulators, work with external legal advisors, and occasionally support NZX Group legal projects.

If you’re looking for your first in-house role, this is an excellent opportunity to gain variety, responsibility, and direct access to business decision-makers. You’ll enjoy stimulating, complex work in an environment that values your contribution and supports your professional growth.

This is a full-time role with flexible working options (including WFH) and can be based in Wellington or Auckland.

 

What we’re looking for

  • A qualified lawyer with a strong LLB and at least 3 years’ NZ experience in private practice or an in-house corporate environment
  • A current NZ legal practising certificate (or eligibility to obtain one)
  • Solid commercial law knowledge and contract negotiation skills
  • A sound understanding of the Companies Act 1993; familiarity with the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013 and NZX Listing Rules is an advantage
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex matters clearly
  • Excellent commercial judgment, time management, and relationship-building abilities

 

About the organisation

Smart is one of New Zealand’s leading investment fund managers and a wholly owned subsidiary of NZX Limited — the operator of our national stock exchange and the trusted infrastructure supporting New Zealand’s share market.

Here, you’ll be part of an open, vibrant, and supportive environment where talent is nurtured, diversity is embraced, and outstanding performance is recognised. Creativity and fresh thinking are encouraged from all levels of the organisation.

Joining Smart means working on complex, high-value legal matters that have real impact, alongside a motivated and engaged team who are passionate about what they do. You’ll have the opportunity to grow your expertise, broaden your commercial experience, and contribute to a business that plays a pivotal role in New Zealand’s capital markets.

 

How do I apply?
Click on “Apply Now”. Alternatively, contact us directly and quote reference number 1639595. 

Please submit your CV and cover letter by the closing date of Wednesday 27 September 2025.

We have a range of inhouse and private practice roles for lawyers at all levels.  If this role isn’t for you but you’d like to hear what else is available, give us a call.  We’d love to hear from you. 

 

Kathryn Cross BMus LLB

027 700 8049 | kathryn.cross@artemisnz.com 

Artemis Executive Recruitment is committed to creating inclusive and respectful workplaces.  We value diversity as a strength and welcome applicants that can help bring a difference to our client organisations.

At Artemis Executive Recruitment, we connect remarkable people with great places to work.