Head of Legal Counsel

Job description

Freyssinet Australia is a leading force in specialised engineering, focusing on structural remediation, cutting-edge bridge projects, and sustainable infrastructure solutions. With a reputation for delivering high-profile, technically complex projects, we’re shaping the future of construction. From restoring iconic structures to implementing eco-friendly innovations, our projects are as varied as they are impactful. 

Desired profile

We are seeking an experienced Head of Legal Counsel reporting directly to the Managing Director. In this pivotal role, you will work closely with a broad professional community within the company.  You will provide timely or preventative legal advice and work closely with engineers to offer pragmatic legal solutions across Australia and New Zealand, with some reporting responsibility to our parent company VINCI Construction, based in France.
Your aim will be to minimize legal and contractual liability on engineering projects and build strong commercial capability within our engineering teams.

This role manages two Contracts Managers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide legal advice and guidance on a wide range of issues including contracts, compliance, employment, and dispute resolution.
• Work closely with project representatives and teams to resolve contractual matters and implement best practice.
• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, and other legal documents to ensure compliance.
• Represent the company in mediations, and other legal proceedings as required.
• Work with external counsel as needed to handling complex litigation and dispute resolution
• Manage company insurance policies, including annual renew.
• Develop and company policies and procedures to align with industry best practices.
• Mentor and supervise the legal team.
• Coach management and operations teams towards increased legal and contractual insight.
• Deliver compliance training to Freyssinet employees.

You will arrive with:

• Professional Legal Qualifications with a minimum of 5-10 years of experience in a similar in-house legal role or a reputable law firm.
• Strong knowledge of contract law, corporate law, and regulatory compliance.
• A high level of attention to detail and the ability to handle multiple tasks under tight deadlines.
• Experience of working within the construction and engineering industry would be highly regarded.
• Proven experience in managing complex legal issues and providing practical, business-focused solutions.
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation and communication skills.
• Experience offering strategic advice to senior management. 
• Enthusiasm for working with broad range of stakeholders for better outcomes – from client representatives through to engineering professionals at all levels and external legal providers.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team, with strong problem-solving skills.
• If you are a focused, experienced and adaptable individual looking to contribute, wanting a change or career

About Freyssinet Australia

Freyssinet Australia and New Zealand is a multifaceted specialist contractor providing innovative solutions for remediation, post-tensioning, and specialist civil engineering. We have an unrivalled reputation in specialised civil engineering across Bridges, Structures, Marine, and Industrial sectors. We have local branches in all states of Australia & parts of New Zealand and are present in over 100 countries around the world.