Western Sydney University is a modern, world-class institution located in the heart of Australia's fastest growing and most economically significant region. With nearly 50,000 students, approximately 3,500 staff, and a network of campuses across Greater Western Sydney, Vietnam, and Indonesia, we are proud to be ranked among the top two per cent of universities globally.
Our commitment to equity, excellence, and impact drives everything we do. We have been ranked first worldwide for four consecutive years (2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025) for our dedication to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals in the Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings. Purpose‑driven and practical, we are seeking a senior technology and commercial lawyer to enable innovation while safeguarding the University’s interests and reputation.
The Opportunity
Sitting within the Office of General Counsel, you will be the go‑to advisor for complex technology and commercial matters across the University. You will lead the negotiation and drafting of high‑value ICT and commercial arrangements, provide clear, solutions‑focused advice on data, privacy and cybersecurity risks, and support major initiatives that underpin teaching, research, and community engagement. You will improve templates and playbooks, streamline processes in partnership with Procurement and Digital teams, and brief or manage external advisers when required.
As a senior member of the legal team, you will build trusted relationships with executives and project leads, balance commercial outcomes with legal and governance obligations, and coach colleagues and clients to lift contract and risk literacy. You will contribute to a collaborative, service‑oriented culture that helps the University move quickly while staying compliant.
This is a full‑time, five‑year fixed‑term appointment based at our Parramatta South campus, with travel to other campuses, as needed.
About You
You are an experienced technology and commercial lawyer with a strong record of turning complex issues into practical, timely advice for senior stakeholders. You are highly capable in negotiating and drafting ICT agreements (including cloud and software arrangements), services and procurement contracts, and a broad range of commercial deals. You understand privacy and data protection in an enterprise context, bring excellent judgement under pressure, and communicate with clarity and influence. You build constructive partnerships, enjoy mentoring others, and thrive in a high‑impact, purpose‑led environment.
You will bring:
* Admission to practise in Australia and an unrestricted practising certificate, or eligibility to obtain one in NSW.
* Substantial post‑admission experience in technology and commercial law gained in a leading firm, in‑house or public sector environment, preferably in excess of 10 years.
* Deep expertise negotiating and drafting ICT agreements, including SaaS, cloud, software licensing, data hosting, cybersecurity, outsourcing and professional services.
* Strong command of privacy and data protection, including the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), the Privacy and Personal Information Act 1998 (NSW), and Australian Privacy Principles, and the ability to operationalise privacy by design.
* Proven ability to balance legal, governance and procurement requirements with timely, outcomes‑focused advice.
* Track record improving templates, playbooks and contracting processes that lift quality and speed without compromising risk controls.
* Confident supplier engagement and dispute resolution skills, with sound judgment under pressure and an eye for practical settlement pathways.
* Experience briefing and managing external counsel, with a disciplined approach to scope, cost, and value.
* Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to distil complex issues for senior decision‑makers and non‑legal audiences.
* Collegial leadership style, with a commitment to mentoring, knowledge sharing and continuous improvement.
* Familiarity with higher education or public sector contexts, including research, IP commercialisation, data sharing, and sector‑specific compliance settings.
* Awareness of emerging issues in AI, information security and data ethics, and their contractual implications.
* Comfort with contract lifecycle and e‑signature tools, and a readiness to champion better ways of working.
Why Join Us?
At Western Sydney University, you’ll be part of an institution that is both deeply connected to its community and globally recognised for its excellence and impact.
We offer:
* Shape high‑impact technology and commercial deals that enable the University’s digital future and community mission.
* Partner closely with senior decision‑makers in a collaborative legal team that values pragmatism and pace.
* Thrive in a flexible, supportive environment with meaningful development, mentoring and the scope to leave a visible legacy.
Position Enquiries:
Please direct specific enquiries regarding the role to Kevin Yoon, Associate Director, Talent Acquisition at kevin.yoon@westernsydney.edu.au.
Closing Date:
11:59pm on Sunday 19th October 2025
Working Rights in Australia - Eligibility
You must provide evidence of your full-time working rights in Australia at time of application.
Note: Only applications submitted via the University’s online recruitment system will be considered.
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