Managing Principal Solicitor

About the role

The Victorian Ombudsman (VO) is an independent, free and impartial service for the public, governed by the Ombudsman Act 1973 (Vic). The Managing Principal Solicitor reports to the General Counsel and Director, Legal and leads the delivery of expert, outcomes-focused legal advice. The role ensures the VO complies with its obligations under the Ombudsman Act and supports all areas of the office with practical legal advice, correspondence and court documents. It is based in Melbourne.

Key responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day supervision, leadership and management of a team of legal practitioners and legal support staff, and drive a high-performance culture.
• Translate legal team goals into realistic objectives and help staff manage emerging risks.
• Identify and advise on new and emerging legal issues and their longer-term implications for the VO.
• Lead reviews of significant cases to improve systems and processes, and oversee projects on systems, processes, technology and ways of working.
• Review complex legal advice, reports, correspondence, policies and procedures, and resolve complex work-related issues.
• Build relationships with internal and external stakeholders and provide complex legal advice, including liaison and negotiation, to meet statutory obligations.
• Support other parts of the organisation, such as litigated matters, public interest disclosures, privacy and freedom of information.

Required profile

• Bachelor of Laws or equivalent legal qualification from a recognised institution.
• Current practising certificate under the Legal Profession Uniform Law Application Act 2014, or eligibility to obtain one immediately.
• Significant knowledge of, or ability to quickly acquire knowledge of, the Ombudsman's obligations under relevant legislation.
• Experience managing a team of legal practitioners; 10 years' experience in administrative law, litigation, investigations and public sector decision making is preferred.
• Experience preparing complex briefs, reports and written communication; confident communicator.

Required skills

• Statutory interpretation and administrative law.
• Strategic planning, critical thinking and problem solving.
• Stakeholder management and managing people.

Applications close 9 November 2026 and must include a 1-page cover letter and a resume of no more than 5 pages. Employment is subject to criminal record, working with children and reference checks, a statutory declaration, confidentiality agreement and conflict of interest check.