Strategic General Counsel — Higher Education Leader

Professional; Canberra; On-site; AUD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Australian National University (ANU) is seeking an accomplished General Counsel to lead the University Legal Office in Canberra. The role reports to the Chief Operating Officer and provides strategic legal counsel to Council, Vice-Chancellor, and senior leadership across governance, regulatory compliance, and risk management.

The General Counsel will oversee high-quality legal services, collaborate with executive stakeholders, and help drive ANU’s mission in education, research, and community

Qualifications

• Must have strategic leadership experience in a large organisation
• Demonstrated ability to provide high-level legal advisory
• Strong relationship-building and influential communication skills
• Admitted, or eligible for admission, as a Barrister or Solicitor in an Australian jurisdiction

Responsibilities

• Lead a comprehensive legal office delivering governance, regulatory compliance, commercial and research advice
• Provide strategic, pragmatic, and risk-balanced legal counsel to university leadership
• Support institutional objectives with pragmatic legal strategies and risk management
• Foster a culture of integrity and professional excellence within the Legal Office

Job description

Australian National University (ANU) is seeking an accomplished General Counsel to lead the University Legal Office in Canberra. The role reports to the Chief Operating Officer and provides strategic legal counsel to Council, Vice-Chancellor, and senior leadership across governance, regulatory compliance, and risk management.

The General Counsel will oversee high-quality legal services, collaborate with executive stakeholders, and help drive ANU’s mission in education, research, and community