We’re pleased to be partnering with a fast-growing education business with ambitious plans across Australia and New Zealand. They’re looking for a commercially-minded Head of Legal to work closely with the CEO and senior leadership team across legal, risk, compliance, property, operations, and governance.
Role Overview
Reporting to the CEO, the role will lead the legal function across Australia and New Zealand, with responsibility for enterprise risk, governance, compliance, and company secretarial duties. This is a strategic and hands-on role, advising the business on commercial, operational, and regulatory matters while ensuring legal frameworks and risk management systems are robust and future-focused.
Key Responsibilities
Legal Advice & Support

• Provide high-level legal advice on commercial risks, acquisitions, divestments, contracts, leases, and litigation.
• Manage commercial contract governance, including terms and obligations registers.
• Oversee relationships with external legal providers to ensure quality, value, and alignment with business objectives.
• Ensure insurance coverage is appropriate, cost-effective, and fit for purpose.

Legal Administration

• Perform company secretary duties for Australian operations.
• Manage lease administration in partnership with the Property and Facilities team.
• Oversee legal requirements for new and replacement bank guarantees.

Enterprise Risk Management

• Lead the development and implementation of the Enterprise Risk Management Framework.
• Oversee compliance with key legislative obligations including Privacy, Modern Slavery, Conflict of Interest, and Anti-Bribery.
• Develop organisational strategies, systems, and policies that build a proactive risk management culture.

Collaboration & Leadership

• Work closely with executives, operations, and functional leaders to integrate strategic outcomes into daily operations.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and guidance to team members and stakeholders on legal and risk matters.

What You’ll Bring

• Proven senior legal leadership experience.
• Strong track record in a regulated or complex operational environment.
• Commercial acumen with the ability to manage both strategic priorities and operational legal work.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and influencing skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Law, admission to practice in Australia, and current practising certificate.

Why This Role
This is a national leadership opportunity in a high-growth organisation with significant operations in both Australia and New Zealand.
You’ll be part of a collaborative executive team, with scope to shape the legal and risk function and play a pivotal role in supporting the organisation’s strategic direction.
For more information, please reach out to Ross Dakin at Peppercorn Recruitment on 0431267250 or email your CV to [email protected], quoting reference 3930716.