The Role

The EL2.1 Executive Director holds a high level of autonomy and is accountable for the achievement of strategic outcomes for the legal function including design and delivery of its workforce strategies, plans, assurance and associated efficiency, and effectiveness targets and outcomes to achieve alignment with both enterprise and Government objectives. Key accountabilities for the role include successful integration of all elements of the legal practice through strong leadership and negotiation skills, effective planning, design and governance.

The role requires significant independence to deliver strategic leadership, representing Defence Legal at fora within and external to Defence Legal to achieve the effective operation of the in-house legal practice. The role requires regular interaction across Defence, Industry and other Government agencies to effectively manage legal risk in accordance with Commonwealth standards and ensures that legal services meet legislative and policy requirements, as well as all Court ordered obligations.

This position is classified as having a work value commensurate with EL2.1 and the salary range of $167,660 - $199,525. Positions with a work value at EL2.1 are reviewed annually and salary may increase or decrease in accordance with the provisions of the Defence Enterprise Agreement. Applicants should familiarise themselves with the relevant provisions of the Defence Enterprise Agreement if considering applying for this position. Should an annual review determine that work is no longer available at the higher work value, the employee’s classification and salary will be decreased to the lower level work value and salary within the EL 2 classification range.

About our Team

Defence Legal is a culturally diverse and inclusive organisation. It is a critical enabler that provides legal services to the Department of Defence, including the Australian Defence Force. The legal services provided by Defence Legal cut across broad ranging issues that contribute to the capability of Defence achieving its mission to defend Australia and its national interests in order to advance Australia’s security and prosperity.

The Legal Practice Enablement Branch supports the work of the Chief Counsel, the broader Defence Legal Executive and their branches. The team is part of a diverse and inclusive workplace which offers a rewarding career. You will work both collaboratively and autonomously within a dynamic multi-disciplinary environment. Defence Legal is an agile employer and flexible working arrangements will be considered upon request.

Our Ideal Candidate

As the Executive Director of the Legal Practice Enablement Branch, you will have:

• A deep understanding of resource management principles and frameworks in a public service context. Experience or qualifications in Public Service management, legal practice management or business administration is required.
• Solid understanding of strategic planning and enterprise reporting, communication and change management practices, workforce planning, financial management and procurement, legal practice governance and compliance, legal risk management, and technology, data and information management related to a legal function.
• Sound knowledge and experience to perform as a part of the Divisional leadership team and to provide strategic and operational leadership for the effective and efficient management of the legal practice management function.
• Have a proven ability to communicate with influence and the ability to nurture productive working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders including industry partners.

Application Closing Date: Thursday 15 May 2025

For further information please review the job information pack, reference ASG/03402/25 on https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/?jati=6541DE28-5D36-2815-F183-E3C08AAFFADF