Legal Services LeadKo wai mātou Who are weTe Kaunihera-ā-rohe o Ngāmotu - New Plymouth District Council is a local government organisation located in the heart of New Plymouth. Our vision is to be the Sustainable Lifestyle Capital, and our district boasts a spectacular natural beauty from Taranaki Maunga to the moana. In 2021, we were awarded the most liveable city (for a population between 75,000-150,000) by the International Awards for Liveable Communities. We work collaboratively with iwi, Government, not-for-profits and businesses to achieve outcomes that benefit our community.Te āheinga The opportunityNPDC is seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to fill the role of Legal Services Lead. This pivotal position will play a crucial role in providing high-quality legal support and advice to facilitate the achievement of NPDC's purpose and strategic priorities. The successful candidate will demonstrate leadership qualities, exceptional legal acumen, and a strong commitment to customer service excellence.Tino takohanga Key responsibilitiesLegal Services
Provide robust and practical internal legal advice to managers and council staff.
Provide high quality researched and best practice advice on relevant legislation to stakeholders.
Manage legal services contracts with external providers to ensure the provision of effective and value adding services and advice to the Council.
Ensure that legal delegation processes are promoted and well managed to guide managers to work within their assigned accountabilities/delegations.
General
Regular reporting to the Finance, Audit & Risk Committee on legal and litigation matters.
Establish and maintain strong relationships across the business.
Lead the team to grow organisational capability to achieve recommended best practice and to delivery of council's vision.
Actively ensure that good employer obligations and legislative requirements are fulfilled, particularly in relation to all key relevant legislation.
Ngā tino pūkenga me ngā wheako Essential skills and experience
Degree in Law and hold a current New Zealand Practising Certificate.
Minimum of 8 years' experience in provision of legal services in an in- house role for a local or central government agency or in a private law firm with a public sector client base.
Property Law - working knowledge of Property Law Act, Reserves Act 1977, Public Works Act 1981, and drafting of licences and agreements for use and occupancy of land.
Commercial law experience - a good understanding of, and experience in drafting, commercial documentation in a local authority context.
He aha ai a Taranaki? Why Taranaki?With the stunning Mt Taranaki as a backdrop and the warm iron sands along our coast, it is no wonder Taranaki is one of the best regions in New Zealand and the world. In Taranaki it's easy to achieve an enviable lifestyle without having to compromise your career. Our regions' dynamic surf, multitude of parks and gardens, iconic walkways, major events calendar and mountain playground make this the place to live!Ōu mātou rourou What we offerAt the New Plymouth District Council we aim to create and sustain a truly rewarding workplace environment for our staff including solid career pathways, learning and development opportunities as well as personal and professional development.You can expect to start in this permanent full-time role with us between $127,341 - $145,735. We have also put together an Our Peoples Package that spans Wellbeing, Development, Benefits, Culture and Recognition.If you think this sounds like you, then we would love to hear from you!Applications close Sunday 28th April 2024
