Senior Legal Counsel - Public Law

Company Description

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s pre‑eminent University, with a turnover of $1.6 bn, including research revenue of over $300m generated across eight diverse faculties and two research institutes. With over 6,000 staff and 46,000 students, the University of Auckland is one of New Zealand’s most significant and complex entities.

Job Description

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 be part of a collaborative legal team, providing pragmatic, solutions‑focused advice on a wide range of matters – from interpreting the Bill of Rights Act and advising on academic freedom, 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

• 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.

About you

You’re a confident and capable legal professional with at least 8 years PQE, ideally with experience in public law within a large or complex organisation. You bring sound judgement, strategic thinking and a strong understanding of the legal frameworks that underpin public institutions.

You’re intellectually curious, pragmatic and confident working autonomously. You enjoy engaging with complex legal issues from human rights and academic freedoms to governance and compliance, and you’re motivated by work that has real‑world impact.

You build trust‑based relationships, communicate clearly, and contribute positively to team culture. If you’re looking for a role where your legal expertise can help shape public accountability and institutional integrity, we’d love to hear from you.

What we offer

How to apply

Applications should be submitted online before the closing date of Sunday 30 November 2025 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 – Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.

Equity and Diversity

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, LGBTQIATakatāpu, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances, visit

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