Every institution values excellence. What matters most is why.
Griffith was created to be a different type of university. You’ll find we’re about leading research, academic excellence, and the transformative power of education. But what sets us apart is why those things matter and how you’ll achieve them.

Why? Griffith brings together exceptional minds like yours from across the globe and from all walks of life. Here, we do incredible work, questioning and challenging, always in the pursuit of excellence.

Griffith University believes in, strives for and celebrates the remarkable. Known for its high impact research, outstanding student experience and commitment to social justice, the University is proud of its achievements, people and the passion for making a positive difference.

About the opportunity  

The General Counsel is the most senior legal advisor for the University managing the full spectrum of legal, compliance, workplace relations, integrity and corporate governance services as well as delivering risk, resilience and internal audit services to support and enable the University to achieve its strategy and purpose.  The General Counsel also oversights the Student Ombudsman function. 

In addition to the provision of strategic legal and risk advice to the senior executive, the General Counsel works with the senior leadership to ensure all operations of the organisation are conducted within the risk appetite set by the University’s Council including limits prescribed by law and that the organisation’s rights are protected through the provision of sound legal counsel and guidance. A collaborative approach is required to influence and enable a complex and diverse organisation.  

As a trusted advisor, working closely with the Vice Chancellor, Provost, Chief Operating Officer and various governance bodies, the General Counsel (through the broader team) provides second- and third-line assurance over the University’s control environment as well as appropriate corporate governance frameworks, standards and protocols. 

The position develops the strategy of and leads implementation of key projects across the General Counsel portfolio as well as being a member of the Corporate Services Executive Team to deliver outstanding services to the University and enable the University’s vision.  

About you   

• A bachelor’s degree in law and eligibility for admission as a solicitor or barrister in the Supreme Court of Queensland, along with an extensive period of practice post-admission is required. 

• Experience in all or some of the General Counsel functional teams including corporate governance, risk, resilience, insurance, internal audit, workplace relations, integrity, compliance and privacy. 

• Demonstrated ability to lead diverse teams and drive engagement and enablement. 

• Demonstrated ability to engage strategically and meaningfully with governing bodies and regulators  

What we can offer 
 
This is a full time, five-year fixed term senior contract and is based at Griffith University Nathan campus. This position sits on the Corporate Services executive team and will come with robust support from a strong leadership team, as well as day to day support from a highly regarded Executive Officer. 

In addition to a competitive salary, this role provides a true respect for work-life balance. You'll be part of a well-established and highly engaged team, tackling a wide variety of projects, including strategic issues, crisis exercises, regulatory work, and new technologies. We foster a genuine enthusiasm for innovation and creative approaches in our work. 

As Griffith is a multi-campus University you may be required to work across other campus locations. Griffith University’s campuses are located on the lands of the Yugarabul, Yuggera, Jagera, Turrbal, Yugambeh and Kombumerri peoples. 

Why join Griffith?

As a values-led organisation, at Griffith University, we've worked hard to create a dynamic and strong organisational culture. We offer:

• Wide range of Learning and Development opportunities
• Mix of on campus and work from home options available and a supportive work environment
• Salary packaging options and corporate health discounts
• Generous leave entitlements including paid parental leave and leave loading
• Support with future learning opportunities through our educational staff assistance scheme
• Opportunities for internal mobility
• Health Safety and Wellbeing initiatives – on campus Gym facilities

At Griffith, we’re committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all - whoever you are and wherever you’re from. If you require any accommodations, we welcome you to let us know so we can work with you to participate fully in our recruitment experience.

Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. For more information please visit our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion page. Griffith University also maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against all forms of modern slavery. For more information, please refer to Griffith’s Modern Slavery Policy.

How to apply
Please submit your application online and ensure it includes the following:

• A covering letter outlining your suitability for the role, please refer to the qualifications above and the position description. 
• Current curriculum vitae/resume including full contact details

For application and recruitment advice please reach out to Laura Whitworth, Talent Acquisition Partner – [email protected]

Closing date:  Friday 9th August @ Midday. All applications must be submitted online.