Senior Legal Counsel

Shape the future of local governance with expert legal guidance

Are you a highly experienced legal professional looking to make a meaningful impact? We’re seeking a Senior Legal Counsel to provide expert legal advice and strategic support across all Council functions.

Mō te tūranga | About the position

As Senior Legal Counsel, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring legal compliance, mitigating risks, and supporting sound decision-making within Council. You’ll work as part of a team that provide high-level legal guidance on governance, regulatory compliance, property law, commercial agreements and dispute resolution. You’ll also have the opportunity to mentor junior legal staff and enhance legal capability across the organisation.

This position is part time permanent, 26 hours per week.

You’ll recognise the importance of the role as a Treaty partner and understand how that underpins Gisborne District Council’s work.

Ngā Mahi ngā Takohanga Matua rānei | Duties include:

Provide clear, strategic legal advice to Council, senior leaders, and governance teams
Support legal compliance in areas such as regulatory consenting, policy, governance, and commercial agreements
Work collaboratively with internal teams and external legal providers
Assist with litigation, negotiations, and advocacy on behalf of the Council
Draft, review, and interpret legal documents
Opportunities to represent Council in hearings, mediations, and court proceedings
Deliver training and guidance to staff on legal and legislative matters
Stay ahead of legal and legislative changes to ensure best practices and risk mitigation

Ngā Pūkenga me Ngā Wheako e Hiahia ana | Skills and experience required:

A Bachelor of Laws (LLB), admission as a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand, and a current practicing certificate
10+ years of post-qualification legal experience (public sector or local government experience is desirable)
Experience in RMA, regulatory compliance, commercial law or local government another public sector organisation would be an advantage.
Exceptional analytical, advisory, and advocacy skills
Proven ability to manage complex legal issues and provide pragmatic, solution-focused advice
Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and negotiation skills

Ngā Huanga | Benefits

Flexible on start and finish times
Hybrid working (home and work)
Relocation Assistance
Ora Day leave - birthday or any other significant day leave!
Piritahi Day - an additional leave day to spend with whānau & friends.
Waiata group and Kawhe Korero Te Reo class.
Staff Discounts at local retailers and big brands
Work with a great team and enjoy regular, lively social events!
Access to reduced health insurance premiums for you and your family through Southern Cross
Walking distance to the CBD
Modern office space
Free eye exams
 A culture of health and wellbeing with free EAP services and regular staff wellness initiatives  
Annual flu vaccinations and health checks
1 of 6 Unitary Authorities in NZ

He aha ngā painga o te kaunihera | Why work for Gisborne District Council

Here at Gisborne District Council, we pull our values from the community we serve. It makes sense then that we are enthusiastic about culture in our workplace. Family and inclusivity are deep seated in our ethos. With Treaty partnership front of mind, we’re serious about building a workforce that enhances our commitment to deliver.

We work hard together to make our people proud, and our whanau are why we are so passionate about what we do for the community.

Me pēhea te tono mai | How to Apply

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and the position will be filled as soon as the right candidate is identified.

If you're interested, click APPLY now! For more information, email [email protected].

To view the job description for this role, please visit our careers page www.gdc.govt.nz/council/careers and check the job attachments section in the job advertisement.