General Counsel

Your next adventure: Rotorua Lakes Council beckons!

Are you seeking an adventure that combines professional growth with community enrichment? Look no further than Te Kaunihera o ngā Roto o Rotorua - Rotorua Lakes Council. With a team of just under 500 staff, we're the driving force behind iconic projects that define the Rotorua landscape - from the Sir Howard Morrison Centre to the Rotorua Lakefront Redevelopment. Immerse yourself in the unique blend of nature and culture that Rotorua offers, with lakeside tranquility, world-class mountain biking, and captivating geothermal wonders. Our commitment to biculturalism through collaboration with Te Arawa, our local iwi, is hugely important as is your appreciation for Māori values, te reo, and tikanga Māori. Join us and embark on a journey where your passion meets purpose.

Whakarongo ki te Tūī e karanga mai ana, Tihei Mauriora e! Hear the call of the Tūī, Behold there is life!

Are you an experienced legal professional ready to make a real impact in a dynamic local government environment? Rotorua Lakes Council is seeking a dedicated and high-performing General Counsel to join our Organisational Performance and Innovation group.

In this leadership role, you'll provide expert legal, strategic, commercial and risk management advice that guides sound decision-making and supports the achievement of Council priorities.

Key responsibilities include the following:

• Provide comprehensive legal advice and support across Council operations
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, regulations, and bylaws
• Represent Council in legal proceedings and negotiations
• Draft, review and negotiate contracts, agreements and other legal documents
• Develop and implement legal strategies to mitigate risks and support Council initiatives
• Liaise with external legal advisors and key stakeholders as required

About you

You are an experienced leader with exceptional communication and relationship skills. You bring sound judgment, political awareness, and the maturity to handle complex and sensitive matters. With excellent attention to detail and proven influencing ability, you thrive in fast-paced environments where teamwork and initiative are essential.

Your energy, professionalism, and commitment to delivering outstanding service will help ensure Council operates with integrity, compliance, and confidence.

If you're passionate about providing expert legal advice, leading with purpose, and helping shape the future of our district, we'd love to hear from you.

Sound like you? Apply now and make your mark with Rotorua Lakes Council.

Please click this link to view the position description

Te Kaunihera o nga Roto o Rotorua (Rotorua Lakes Council) is committed to working in partnership with Te Arawa, our local iwi. We aspire to being a bicultural organisation and we value staff who speak te reo Māori, have an appreciation of Māori values, and a working knowledge of tikanga Māori.

Applications close at 9:59 pm on Sunday, 14 December 2025