Senior Legal Counsel (Construction & Major Projects) — Melbourne CBD, Melbourne

As a Senior Legal Counsel you will provide comprehensive legal support to our client's construction and major projects division. D'Arcy Weil is representing a leading engineering and construction company delivering innovative and sustainable solutions across a diverse range of industries. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on delivering complex projects to the highest standards, our client has earned a reputation for reliability and expertise in the Australian market. As a Senior Legal Counsel you will play a crucial role in providing comprehensive legal support to our client's construction and major projects division. Their expertise in construction law and project management will be instrumental in ensuring the successful delivery of projects while mitigating legal risks and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Key Responsibilities: Contract Negotiation and Drafting: Leads the negotiation, drafting, and review of construction contracts, including but not limited to EPC contracts, design and construct agreements, and subcontractor agreements. Ensures that contracts accurately reflect the terms negotiated and comply with legal requirements. Risk Management: Identifies legal risks associated with construction projects and develops strategies to mitigate these risks. Provides proactive advice to project teams on risk allocation, insurance requirements, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Project Support: Provides legal support throughout all stages of construction projects, from tendering and procurement to project execution and completion. Collaborates with project managers and other stakeholders to address legal issues as they arise and ensure timely resolution. Compliance: Stays abreast of relevant legislation, regulations, and industry standards impacting construction projects. Advises on compliance requirements and develops policies and procedures to ensure adherence to legal and regulatory obligations. Dispute Resolution: Manages construction-related disputes, including claims, variations, and litigation matters. Works closely with internal stakeholders and external legal counsel to resolve disputes efficiently and cost-effectively, with a focus on preserving client relationships and project timelines. Contract Administration: Oversees contract administration processes to ensure compliance with contractual obligations and proper documentation of project communications and correspondence. Provides guidance on claims management and change order procedures. Legal Advice and Training: Provides timely and practical legal advice to project teams and senior management on construction law issues, contract interpretation, and dispute avoidance strategies. Develops and delivers training programs to enhance legal awareness and capability within the organization. Stakeholder Management: Builds and maintains strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and regulatory authorities. Represents the company in negotiations and meetings with external stakeholders, advocating for the organization's interests while maintaining professionalism and integrity. Due Diligence: Conducts legal due diligence on potential projects, acquisitions, and joint ventures to assess legal risks and opportunities. Provides recommendations and support to senior management in making informed business decisions. Continuous Improvement: Identifies opportunities for process improvements and efficiencies within the legal function and contributes to the development and implementation of best practices and standard operating procedures. Team Leadership: Mentors and supervises junior legal staff within the construction and major projects legal team. Fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment conducive to professional growth and development. Qualifications and Experience: Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) or Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from a recognized university. Admission to the relevant state or territory legal profession. Minimum of 8 years of experience practicing law, with a focus on construction law and major projects. Demonstrated experience negotiating and drafting construction contracts and resolving construction-related disputes. Strong understanding of construction industry practices, project management principles, and regulatory requirements. Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills. Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects simultaneously. Previous experience working in a law firm or in-house legal department within the construction or engineering sector is highly desirable. _______________________________________________________ NOTE: Please apply with a professional cover letter outlining your skills, knowledge, and experience relating to the role. ________________________________________________________ For further information, please contact: IVAN PIGNATARO Director D’Arcy Weil St James Building, Mezzanine 555 Bourke Street, Naarm Country, Melbourne VIC 3000 T: 61 3 9999 7409 M: 0416 507 856 E: ivandarcyweil.com We thank all applicants for their interest and advise that applications will be accepted until a qualified pool of candidates is received.

Applications close Sunday, 5 May 2024
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