Director – Legal, Risk & Compliance

About the role

This senior leadership position is responsible for safeguarding a large, kaupapa‑driven tertiary organisation. The Director will provide authoritative legal judgement, strategic risk insight and robust governance advice to ensure integrity, transparency and accountability across the institution.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee enterprise‑wide legal risk and statutory interpretation
• Lead the organisational risk‑management framework
• Ensure compliance with TEC, NZQA, employment and other relevant legislation
• Direct complex investigations, litigation and complaints handling
• Shape and embed the national policy framework
• Provide clear, strategic legal advice to governance bodies and risk/audit committees
• Mentor and develop emerging leaders within the legal and compliance functions
• Represent the organisation externally at senior levels
• Champion tikanga Māori, Te Tiriti principles and the organisation’s kaupapa in all decision‑making

Required profile

• Master’s or Post‑Graduate degree in Law (LLB) with a current NZLS practising certificate
• 10+ years of senior legal experience, preferably in‑house or public‑sector leadership
• Proven ability to navigate complex litigation, investigations and regulatory complaints
• Strong understanding of New Zealand education, employment and public‑law regulatory systems
• Confidence advising governance boards and risk/audit committees
• Commitment to developing cultural competence in tikanga Māori and Te Tiriti

Required skills

• Deep capability in risk, compliance, governance and legislative interpretation
• Strategic risk insight and ability to translate complex legal issues into actionable guidance
• Leadership and mentorship experience

What we offer

• Free Southern Cross health and life insurance
• Four extra leave days each year for Matariki and Christmas, plus special leave for cultural or sporting events
• Flexible work hours for non‑rostered positions and work‑from‑home options where feasible
• Free car parking at main campuses