Executive Manager Legal & Governance

About the role

The City of Darwin is seeking an experienced legal and governance executive to lead a critical function at the centre of Council decision-making, public accountability and elected member support. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer and contributing as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the role offers the chance to influence strategic outcomes, strengthen organisational governance and lead a capable team delivering high-quality legal, governance and executive support services.

Key responsibilities

• Provide executive-level legal and governance advice to the Chief Executive Officer, Office and the Lord Mayor, General Managers, Elected Members and key stakeholders.
• Lead, coach and develop a skilled multidisciplinary team, fostering accountability, collaboration, sound judgement and continuous improvement.
• Lead Council's legal operations, including engagement and oversight of external legal providers and counsel.
• Oversee legislative compliance, governance systems, delegations, registers, Council and Committee administration and elected member support.
• Manage sensitive matters, including elected member complaints, dispute resolution, politically sensitive correspondence and responses to external oversight bodies.
• Build trusted relationships across government, local government peak bodies and community stakeholders to support advocacy and governance outcomes.

Required profile

• Admission, or eligibility for admission, as a Legal Practitioner of the Supreme Court of the Northern Territory.
• Eligibility to hold an unrestricted practising certificate in the Northern Territory.
• Minimum of three years of legal practice experience.
• Minimum of five years' experience in compliance and governance within a regulated environment.
• Minimum of five years' relevant supervisory or leadership experience.
• Ability to obtain a National Police Records Check and a Class C driver's licence.

Applicants apply through the City of Darwin careers website; applications close on 3 November 2026 and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The City of Darwin is an equal opportunity employer and does not work with recruitment agencies for this position.