Senior Legal Counsel - Public Law

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s pre-eminent University, with a turnover of $1.6bn, including research revenue of over $300m generated across eight diverse faculties and two research institutes. With over 9,000 staff and 50,000 students, the University of Auckland is one of New Zealand’s most significant and complex entities.

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity 

This is a unique opportunity to apply your public law expertise in a values-led institution committed to academic freedom, equity and impact. As Senior Legal Counsel - Public Law, you’ll provide expert advice on legislation, governance and regulatory compliance, helping the University meet its obligations as a public institution.

You’ll work on a wide range of matters - from interpreting the Bill of Rights Act and advising on academic freedoms, to supporting Council governance and responding to oversight bodies. The role is varied, intellectually engaging and purpose-driven, with scope to influence policy, decision-making and institutional integrity. While your primary focus will be public law, you’ll also contribute to broader legal matters as part of a collaborative and high-performing in-house legal team.

Key responsibilities include:

• Advising on legislation relevant to the tertiary sector (e.g. Education and Training Act, Privacy Act, Crown Entities Act).
• Supporting governance processes and providing legal advice to Council and committees.
• Managing responses to oversight bodies such as the Ombudsman, Privacy Commissioner and Auditor-General.
• Partnering with senior leaders to identify legal risks and enable informed decision-making.
• Contributing to legal frameworks, policy development and continuous improvement.
• Promoting legal literacy and supporting the University’s commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

This is a full-time (37.5 hours per week), Permanent position.

For more detailed information, please refer to the Position Description

He kōrero mōu | About you 

You’re a confident and capable legal professional with a strong background in public law, ideally within a large or complex organisation. You bring a pragmatic mindset and the ability to communicate clearly on high-impact matters.  You demonstrate sound judgement, being able to work autonomously and know when to engage management on key matters. 

You’re aspirational, smart and someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys solving problems with purpose. You’re experienced working with ambiguity, managing competing priorities and building strong, collaborative relationships across diverse stakeholder groups.

If you’re looking for a role where your legal expertise can help shape innovation and strategic partnerships, we’d love to hear from you.

What we offer | Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university and maintains significant computational, laboratory and analytic facilities.

The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment through:

• Flexible employment practices (including working from home, flexible hours)
• Up to 6.75% company superannuation scheme
• A competitive salary ($156,000 - $170,000pa) with five weeks’ annual leave

In addition, we also offer career development programmes, discounted car parking, a generous parental leave allowance, childcare, and a number of other discounts on internal and external services.

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply 

Applications should be submitted online, before the closing date of Sunday 19th April, 2026 to be considered. Please include your cover letter and your CV highlighting how you can meet the skills and experiences detailed above.  

For a confidential conversation, please reach out to Joshua Chapman -  [email protected] 

Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email. 

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz