General Counsel

About the role

The General Counsel sits at the heart of Lotto NZ, providing expert legal guidance that enables the organisation to operate confidently, compliantly and commercially. This senior position shapes business outcomes, protects long‑term success and reports directly to the CFO as a member of the Senior Leadership Team.

Key responsibilities

• Lead negotiation and drafting of major technology and digital contracts, supporting transformation programmes and cloud‑based solutions.
• Provide strategic in‑house legal advice on regulatory, legislative and corporate matters.
• Ensure government sourcing rules are met while maximising commercial outcomes.
• Oversee contract management frameworks to minimise risk and unlock value across key supplier relationships.
• Advise senior leadership on high‑risk or complex issues and influence decisions.
• Support policy development, legal compliance and regulatory obligations including OIA, Privacy, Fair Trading and Gambling legislation.
• Play a pivotal role in governance, supporting Board and Audit & Risk Committee processes.

Required profile

• Qualified lawyer with 5+ years’ experience in a commercial legal environment.
• Strong background in technology, digital or complex commercial contracting.
• Proven experience negotiating high‑value contracts and supporting procurement processes.
• Deep understanding of New Zealand contract law; exposure to public law or regulated environments is an advantage.
• Confident communicator able to influence and advise at all organisational levels.
• Highly analytical with sound judgement, capable of solving complex problems under pressure.

Required skills