Legal Counsel – Franchise & Compliance

About the role

This position sits at the centre of a leading franchise group’s legal function, reporting directly to the General Counsel. The Legal Counsel will be embedded in the business, handling franchisee performance, compliance and dispute matters while supporting a wide range of commercial legal activities.

Key responsibilities

• Lead franchisee performance matters, including compliance issues, default notices, remediation and termination processes.
• Manage end‑to‑end dispute resolution, from direct negotiations with franchisees to formal proceedings.
• Advise on compliance with the Franchising Code of Conduct and other regulatory obligations across the network.
• Support the preparation and maintenance of core franchise documentation such as franchise agreements, disclosure documents and business sale agreements.
• Draft, review and negotiate commercial agreements including supplier contracts, service agreements and retail leasing documents.
• Provide guidance on privacy, consumer protection and retail regulatory matters, translating legal complexity into practical advice.
• Act as a trusted business partner and mentor junior team members, contributing to continuous improvement of legal processes.

Required profile

• Law degree and an Australian Practising Certificate (or eligibility).
• 3–8 years post‑qualification experience, preferably in franchising, with exposure to retail, hospitality or FMCG sectors.
• In‑house legal experience preferred; relevant secondments also considered.
• Strong drafting, negotiation and advisory skills across commercial and regulatory matters.
• Familiarity with franchising, consumer protection, privacy and retail regulatory frameworks.
• Experience with retail leasing is advantageous.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive remuneration package.
• Direct reporting line to the General Counsel with exposure to senior leadership.
• Opportunity to mentor a small legal team.
• Hybrid working model (Tuesday‑Thursday in‑office) with flexible arrangements such as a 4‑day week or part‑time options.