Legal and Compliance Manager

Paras & Partners; Sydney; On-site; AUD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Paras & Partners Executive Search and Selection seeks a seasoned Compliance, Risk and WHS leader to oversee legislative obligations, risk controls and safety programs across national sites. You will drive governance, audits and reporting while partnering with leaders to embed accountability and continuous improvement.

The role requires 10+ years of WHS experience, including leadership, with strong knowledge of WHS legislation and culture of safety.

Qualifications

• Implement and maintain compliance and governance frameworks.
• Interpret legislation and translate obligations into practical business processes.
• Experience in governance, audits, investigations and management reporting.
• Strong knowledge of WHS legislation and implementing safety systems.
• 10+ years of WHS experience, including at least five years in leadership.
• Tertiary qualifications in law or WHS; ISO 9001 certification advantageous.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.
• Proactive hands-on approach with ability to manage competing priorities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain compliance and governance frameworks aligned with legislation, regulations, codes and standards.
• Monitor changes and guide teams on required actions.
• Lead enterprise risk management including risk assessments and controls.
• Coordinate internal and external audits and ensure corrective actions.
• Oversee product and environmental compliance, quality management, and business continuity.

Skills

Compliance frameworks

Governance

Audits

WHS knowledge

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Legislation interpretation

Risk management

Education

Law degree

WHS qualification

ISO 9001 certification

Tools

ISO 9001

Job description

Our client is a global leader in Wholesale Hardware and Industrial products. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you will ensure legislative and regulatory obligations are understood and met, strengthen business controls and help leaders identify and manage emerging risks. The role also oversees WHS, supporting safe workplaces and consistent practices across all sites. This opportunity will suit a strategic thinker who enjoys being hands‑on, building relationships and working alongside operational teams to deliver practical improvements.

Key responsibilities

Compliance, legislative obligations and risk management

Develop and maintain compliance and governance frameworks aligned with relevant legislation, regulations, codes and standards.

Monitor legislative changes, assess their business impact and guide teams on required actions.

Lead enterprise risk management, including risk assessments, registers, controls and mitigation plans.

Manage risk‑based internal audits and coordinate external audits, ensuring corrective actions are completed.

Oversee product and environmental compliance, quality management systems and business continuity planning.

Provide clear reporting and recommendations to senior management on compliance, emerging risks and control effectiveness.

Work health and safety

Develop and implement national WHS strategies, policies and procedures.

Lead hazard identification, incident investigations and corrective actions.

Oversee emergency preparedness, WHS reporting and committee activities.

Partner with People & Culture on psychosocial risk management, wellbeing and injury management.

Deliver training that strengthens safety awareness and accountability.

Leadership and teamwork

Lead, coach and support a small team, setting clear priorities and performance expectations.

Build strong working relationships across departments and national sites.

Translate complex requirements into clear, practical advice for leaders and employees.

Work collaboratively to embed compliance, accountability and continuous improvement into everyday operations.

About you

A proven record of implementing compliance and risk management frameworks.

The ability to interpret legislation and translate obligations into practical business processes.

Experience in governance, audits, investigations, corrective actions and management reporting.

Strong knowledge of WHS legislation and experience implementing effective safety systems.

Substantial WHS experience, with 10+ years, including at least five years in a leadership role or similar.

Experience managing small teams, delivering training and influencing stakeholders at all levels.

Relevant tertiary qualifications in law, WHS or a related discipline; ISO 9001 certification or similar would be advantageous.

Strong analytical, communication and problem‑solving skills.

A proactive, hands‑on approach and the ability to manage competing priorities.

The successful applicant will enjoy a professional and supportive work environment, plus be rewarded with a highly competitive remuneration package based on their previous experience.

Kindly note, only successful candidates will be contacted.

About us

Paras & Partners Executive Search and Selection provides recruitment services. Our team of industry experienced Consultants and Researchers hold an exceptional track record in delivering recruitment solutions to clients nationally and across the globe.