A leading Australian life and general insurance group is seeking a
Senior Legal Counsel
to lead its legal and regulatory affairs function. Reporting to the Chief Risk Officer, this role provides strategic legal guidance to the Executive Team and Board while remaining hands-on in delivering practical legal support. The position plays a key role in driving strong legal governance, regulatory compliance, and operational resilience across the organisation.
Key responsibilities:
* Provide expert, strategic legal advice across life and general insurance matters, including product design, distribution, claims, marketing, and operational risk.
* Draft, review, and negotiate complex contracts, agreements, and product documentation.
* Ensure compliance with APRA, ASIC, Life Insurance Act, Insurance Act, Corporations Act, Privacy laws, and relevant Codes of Practice.
* Support transformation programs, operational initiatives, and strategic projects with proactive legal guidance.
* Manage disputes, complaints, and external legal providers, advising on strategy, negotiation, and resolution.
* Prepare and present legal and regulatory updates to the Board and Executive, translating complex legal issues into practical, commercial insights.
* Promote a strong legal governance culture through training, knowledge sharing, and accessible legal resources.
Key requirements:
* Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or Juris Doctor; admitted as a Solicitor in an Australian jurisdiction. Postgraduate qualifications in insurance, governance, or risk are desirable.
* Minimum 10 years post-qualification experience in insurance, financial services, or regulatory law, with life insurance experience highly regarded.
* Proven experience advising executives and Boards in APRA-regulated environments.
* Strong commercial and pragmatic approach to legal problem-solving with excellent communication and stakeholder influence skills.
* Skilled in interpreting legislation, drafting commercial agreements, and managing complex disputes.
* Ethical, collaborative, and solutions-focused, with a strong governance mindset.
Benefits and work environment:
* Hybrid flexibility (2–3 days per week in the Melbourne office).
* Additional wellbeing leave and birthday leave.
* Opportunity to lead a pivotal legal function and influence governance, risk management, and customer outcomes at a senior level.