Legal Counsel – Corporate & Energy Law

About the role

As a Legal Counsel (or Senior Legal Counsel) 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 broad range of activities from major contracts and projects to regulatory, governance and public policy matters across New Zealand’s largest renewable electricity producer.

Key responsibilities

• Draft, review and negotiate a wide variety 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 contribute to submissions as required.
• 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 a practising certificate (or ability to practise in NZ).
• Strong commercial judgement with the ability to balance risk and business outcomes.
• Confidence working independently while staying connected to the wider team.
• Excellent communication skills, making complex issues simple and practical.

Required skills

• New Zealand LLB and practising certificate (or eligibility to practise).
• Experience drafting and negotiating commercial contracts.
• Knowledge of corporate governance and securities compliance (NZX/ASX).
• Ability to stay abreast of regulatory and policy changes.
• Collaborative relationship‑building across business functions.

What we offer

• Flexible work options to support work‑life balance for you and your whānau.
• Competitive salary package reviewed annually, plus partnership discounts.
• Wellbeing benefits including Southern Cross Healthcare insurance.
• Enhanced leave provisions such as extra paid days over holidays and parental leave.
• Access to life, trauma and income protection insurance.