About us The Department of Government Services (DGS) was established on 1 January 2023 with a mission to enhance the experience of interacting with the Victorian government for all stakeholders. Our focus is on consolidating essential services within one department, streamlining processes, and digitising systems to ensure seamless experiences for Victorians and businesses alike. By connecting and modernising State and local government platforms, we aim to simplify interactions and improve service delivery. About the role In this role you will advise on a diverse range of significant corporate, commercial and procurement matters affecting the Department and the Victorian Government more broadly, as well as provide advice and support to the DGS Ministers. You will work independently on complex matters, including in relation to the Whole of Victorian Government State Purchase Contracts (SPCs) led to DGS. These State Purchase Contracts aggregate the purchasing power of the Victorian Government across a wide range of areas including ICT, banking and energy to name a few. The role offers a unique opportunity to play a central part in projects that have a significant impact on modernising the Victorian Government and enhancing services for the community. Key Accountabilities Provide strategic, authoritative, and risk-based legal advice on contractual and procurement issues, including drafting and reviewing complex contracts and supporting tendering processes. Independently manage complex commercial matters, including negotiation and finalisation of SPCs. Manage external legal counsel engaged by the Department. Lead the preparation of briefs and correspondence on significant legal and legal policy issues. Assist senior members of the Office of the General Counsel with organisational improvement projects and capacity building initiatives. About you To excel in this role, you must demonstrate: Significant experience providing technically excellent legal advice on complex legal issues, with a focus on commercial contracting and government procurement. Outstanding written and oral communication skills. Excellent relationship management and negotiation skills coupled with a commitment to service excellence. Proven ability to manage competing priorities under time pressure and deliver results in ambiguous situations. Capability to identify, manage, and escalate risks effectively. The ability to provide strategic and pragmatic advice. Mandatory requirements You must be admitted to practice as an Australian lawyer and eligible to hold a Victorian practising certificate. For specific responsibilities please review the attached position description. This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia. How to apply Apply before the advertised closing date 11:59pm on Sunday, 07 April 2024. All applications should include: a resume; and a cover letter which addresses the key selection criteria (within three pages) Other relevant information The department is committed to providing and maintaining a working environment which is safe and without risk to the health of its employees and clients and consistent with the department's obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (OH&S Act), to support this DGS has a COVID-19 Vaccination policy which strongly recommends all DGS employees be fully vaccinated. Preferred candidates will be required to complete a Pre-employment Declaration and Consent Form. Employment of successful candidates will be subject to a National Police Check. DGS actively promotes diversity, inclusion and an equal opportunity workplace. We welcome applicants from all diverse backgrounds, including people with disabilities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. All roles at DGS can be worked flexibly, however it may differ from role to role.