Legal Counsel – Corporate & Energy Law

About the role

As a Legal Counsel (intermediate or senior) you will act as a trusted advisor within Meridian’s Office of the CEO, linking legal insight with commercial decision‑making. You will support a wide range of contracts, projects, regulatory, governance and public policy matters across New Zealand’s largest renewable electricity producer.

Key responsibilities

• Draft, review and negotiate a broad portfolio of commercial contracts and arrangements.
• Provide pragmatic legal advice that balances risk with commercial outcomes.
• Support governance and company secretarial duties, including NZX and ASX obligations.
• Monitor regulatory and policy developments and prepare submissions as required.
• Build strong relationships across the business to help teams navigate complex legal issues.
• Deliver training and guidance on legal, regulatory and compliance matters.
• Manage external legal providers and drive continuous improvement in legal service delivery.

Required profile

• 4–8+ years of experience in a corporate law firm or in‑house legal team.
• New Zealand LLB and practising certificate (or ability to practise in NZ).
• Strong commercial judgement and ability to balance risk with business outcomes.
• Confidence working independently while staying connected to the wider team.
• Excellent communication skills, making complex issues simple and practical.
• Collaborative approach with strong relationship‑building abilities.

Required skills

What we offer

• Flexible work options to support work‑life balance.
• Attractive, competitive salary package reviewed annually, plus partnership discounts.
• Southern Cross Healthcare wellbeing insurance scheme for eligible employees.
• Enhanced leave provisions, including three company‑paid days over the holiday period and enhanced parental leave.