General Counsel And Company Secretary

We are a purpose-driven bank, owned by our customers

Bank First is a customer-owned bank that exists to serve the people who serve the education and health community. Our members put others first, so we put them first.  

We have a clear strategic mandate to transform and grow the bank to do more for our members. At Bank First we are empowered to make bold moves to reimagine the way we serve our members.

In a world that’s rapidly changing, we’re not standing still. Our aim is to be the go-to bank for today’s generation of carers, and the next, and the next!

We’re making changes to make our bank even stronger and more aligned to the needs of our Members and we’re looking for great people to join us.

So, what’s the role?

Reporting to the Chief Risk Officer, the General Counsel and Company Secretary is a great opportunity for an experienced and passionate person to bring both a strategic-focus and pragmatic approach to corporate governance in a dynamic environment!

The role is responsible for leading corporate legal, Company Secretary, regulatory affairs and governance frameworks s across Bank First and its related entities.    

The scope of this role encompasses:

• all regulatory, governance and legal obligations applicable to the Bank both current and emerging;
• supporting the effective operation of the board by monitoring that board policy and procedures are followed,  and coordinating the effective management of board and committee meetings and calendars;;
• providing advice and implementing good governance practices including embedding clear accountabilities and policy frameworks;
• providing corporate legal services including contract reviews, legal advice and collateral reviews; and
• ensuring appropriate frameworks and practices are in place to manage our privacy obligations.

The role will also work collaboratively with the Head of Enterprise Risk, Compliance & Sustainability, the Executive Leadership team and our Directors.

This role offers flexible working & the head office is based in Hawthorn East, Melbourne. (Candidates must be based in Melbourne)

The desired candidate will be legally qualified and will need the following capabilities and experience:

• Significant experience in a regulatory affairs or corporate legal leadership role within a financial services environment, with a strong working knowledge of the applicable legislative and regulatory environment.
• Outcomes focused senior leader with strong people leadership skills, an ability to develop a high performing team, work collaboratively with peers and influence change.
• Exceptional communication skills particularly in report writing and representation at a senior level.
• Highly developed ability to think strategically and apply critical thinking skills, with the ability to work and lead effectively in an agile and flexible environment.
• Accreditation/certification in Governance and/or Australian Institute of Company Directors (or working towards/willing to obtain.)
• Exceptional interpersonal skills
• A strong understanding of confidentiality requirements and the ability to maintain the same.

Why join us

• A great  opportunity,  in a for-purpose organisation committed to helping the community.
• Meaningful work shaping the way we work to protect our members.
• Work-life balance and flexibility, so you can work in a way that best suits you and your family.
• Hybrid working from home and our offices located in Hawthorn East with free parking.
• Competitive remuneration with extensive leave options and gym membership subsidy.
• Free Employee Assistance Program for you and your immediate family members. We offer access to professional support including confidential counselling, wellbeing coaching, financial coaching, dietary and nutrition consultations, and introductory legal advice.
• Professional development is supported and encouraged, so your career continues to grow as you enhance your technical and leadership skills and capabilities.

To apply

If you are looking for purpose and an organisation that lives their values every day, we encourage you to apply – even if you don’t meet all the criteria.

NO Agencies required for this role and we encourage candidates to apply directly as Agency submissions will not be accepted.