Managing Counsel

About the role

Western Sydney University is recruiting a Managing Counsel for a full-time, 5-year fixed-term contract, based on the Parramatta South campus with flexible working arrangements. This is a senior-level position within the Office of General Counsel and University Secretary, acting as second-in-command across the Legal function and advising on complex commercial, research and governance matters.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the review, negotiation and drafting of complex research, commercial and information technology contracts.
• Advise senior stakeholders on high-value transactions, corporate governance, regulatory compliance and legal risk, balancing commercial objectives with the University's statutory obligations and risk appetite.
• Support the development of University statutes, policies, systems and processes and identify emerging legal and regulatory risks.
• Oversee external legal providers and strengthen relationships across the higher education sector.
• Coach and mentor legal team members to support their professional development.

Required profile

• A law degree or equivalent qualification, with eligibility to practise law in New South Wales.
• An unrestricted NSW practising certificate, or the ability to obtain one before starting.
• At least eight years' post-admission experience as a senior lawyer, including research and commercial contracts and corporate governance.
• Extensive experience analysing complex contracts, legislation and regulatory instruments, with strong commercial acumen.
• Ability to explain complex legal matters to senior leaders and non-legal audiences.
• Evidence of full-time working rights in Australia at application.

What we offer

• Staff-only products and offers with selected banking partners, and salary sacrifice options for onsite parking.
• Novated motor vehicle leasing.
• Free Employee Assistance Program, annual flu vaccination, Fitness Passport membership and discounted private health cover.
• Onsite childcare with long day care and early learning services at several campuses, with possible discounts and salary packaging.

Applications are made only through the University's online recruitment system, which includes screening questions; the closing date is 20 November 2026.