Principal Legal Counsel - Employment

This is an opportunity for an experienced employment lawyer to work in a dynamic environment, tackling important workplace issues while helping to shape employment practices that drive positive outcomes across the organisation. Your work will have a direct and meaningful impact on both the organisation and its people.

About the Role | Kōrero mō te tūranga

In this role, you will provide strategic legal advice on complex employment law matters, including workforce management, industrial relations, organisational change, and workplace disputes. You will partner with senior leaders and HR teams to develop practical, risk-based solutions that align with organisational goals while ensuring compliance with employment legislation.

Key responsibilities include:

• Advising on significant workplace disputes, personal grievances, investigations, litigation, and regulatory proceedings.
• Supporting collective bargaining processes and engagement with unions and employee representatives.
• Drafting and reviewing employment agreements, policies, and governance frameworks.
• Monitoring legislative developments and translating them into actionable organisational strategies.
• Providing expert guidance on privacy, official information requests, and other statutory obligations related to employment matters.
• Building organisational capability through thought leadership, coaching, and expert advice.

This is a permanent position with the flexibility to work one day per week from home.

About You | Mōhou ake

To excel in this position, you will have:

• A law degree with a current practicing certificate (or eligibility to obtain one).
• At least 5 years’ experience in employment law
• Proven expertise in resolving workplace issues through strategic thinking and negotiation.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• A collaborative mindset that fosters trust and builds strong relationships within teams.

Apply Now | Tono ināianei

Apply now. Or, for a confidential discussion contact Julia Koning on +64 21 206 0814 I julia.koning@robertwalters.co.nz

We encourage you to apply as soon as possible if you are interested in this opportunity as applications will be considered as they are received.

It is important to us and our client that people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.

Robert Walters endeavours to review all applications in a maximum of five working days. If you have not received correspondence in this timeframe please do not hesitate to contact Apryl Burgess on +6444719721.