Deputy General Counsel

About the role The Deputy General Counsel works closely with and supports the General Counsel, playing a pivotal role in leading the legal function and ensuring strategic alignment. In this position, you will be accountable for : Provide leadership fostering a respectful, high‑performing legal team culture grounded in safety, collaboration, and ethical practice Deliver authoritative legal advice on complex, sensitive, high‑risk and high impact matters Oversee and manage high‑profile or high‑risk legal matters, including litigation, across diverse practice areas, ensuring legal robustness and minimisation of organisational risk Translate the General Counsel’s strategic legal direction into actionable plans, policies, and procedures, and ensure their consistent implementation across the legal team Provide technical leadership, coaching, and mentoring to solicitors and legal professionals, fostering a high‑performance culture and ensure quality assurance Represent the General Counsel in executive forums, interdepartmental committees, and external engagements Lead service improvement initiatives including process optimisation, legal technology adoption, and continuous improvement projects that enhance efficiency and client satisfaction Partner with internal and external stakeholders to identify, assess, and mitigate legal risks View the position description for more details about the role. About you To be successful in this role you will have: A degree in Law with a current Queensland practising certificate, a minimum of 8 years post‑admission experience. In‑house experience gained in a government setting is preferred but not essential. Demonstrated ability to support the General Counsel in the delivery of strategic and operational priorities and responsibilities. Leadership skills to provide direction to branch staff in the delivery of high‑quality, outcomes‑focused legal services to its in‑house clients. Strong experience across administrative law, employment law, general commercial areas, and litigation. An analytical and strategic mindset, and excellent research and statutory interpretation skills. The ability to provide clear, strategic legal advice in complex and sensitive matters, manage internal and external stakeholder negotiations, and excellent written and verbal communication skills. An appreciation of, and focus on, the importance of maintaining and enhancing positive and productive working relationships, both within the Legal Branch and with in‑house clients and political and community stakeholders. Belief in our values of safety and wellbeing, communication, collaboration, integrity, efficiency and leadership. Candidates with backgrounds that relate and align to the operations of local government, and who have the ability and desire to work across diverse practice areas are encouraged to apply. Appointment to the position will be subject to the conduct of criminal background checks. About the benefits This is a full‑time, contract role, subject to a term of 4 years. A competitive base salary + 17.5% leave loading + employer superannuation contributions of 12.5% + 20 days annual leave + 15 days personal leave + accrued long service leave, in addition to other leave entitlements. Positive workplace culture: Be part of a team that values safety, positivity, inclusivity and a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Genuine flexibility and work/life balance: Enjoy a supportive approach to work/life balance to maintain your well‑being while fulfilling your work ambitions. Diversity and inclusion: Work with a diverse workforce where different ideas and perspectives lead to innovation and better decision making. Learning and development: Experience ongoing learning, development and career opportunities to enhance your skills, expertise and knowledge of industry trends. Health and well‑being: Access to discounted gym memberships, employee assistance program and special events supporting your physical and mental health. About us Ipswich is a dynamic blend of rich heritage, proud communities, diverse landscapes, and a lively energy all contributing to a region full of livability and opportunity. It is the state’s fastest growing city and one of the oldest provincial cities. Ipswich City Council contributes to our vibrant and growing region with teams operating across various industries delivering services to the community and creating our vision : ‘Ipswich, a city of opportunity for all. Join us.’ We have a workplace culture built on our values of safety and wellbeing, communication, collaboration, integrity, efficiency, and leadership. Come and join us in shaping the future of the city and its people. Join us If you share our values and are passionate about enhancing the quality of life for the Ipswich community, then this could be the role for you. Please apply online and submit: A cover letter of no more than 2 pages describing how your skills and experience will assist in meeting the requirements of this role. A resume of no more than 3 pages. Closing date : 2 December 2025 Please direct any related questions to Allison Ferres‑MacDonald, General Counsel, / allison.ferres‑ , or Pre Employment Screening : Successful applicants must agree to provide information for pre‑employment screening including referee checks, validation of eligibility to work in Australia, criminal history check and may include health assessments, validation of qualifications and licences and other screening checks. Ipswich City Council is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer : We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace by supporting equal opportunities regardless of gender, culture, generation, sexual orientation, or disability. We promote a respectful workplace culture that is free from all forms of harassment, workplace bullying, discrimination, and violence. #J-18808-Ljbffr