Legal Counsel

Company DescriptionBESIX Watpac is an Australian multi-disciplinary construction company operating for forty years in Australia and backed by over a century of global expertise and financial strength. A wholly owned subsidiary of the award-winning international contractor BESIX Group, we specialise in complex construction across all sectors, including building and infrastructure projects.Today the Group has more than $7B work in hand and is operating in 25 countries, employing 11,000 people globally. The world's tallest tower, the iconic Burj Khalifa, showcases our innovation and engineering distinction. With international hubs located in Australia, Europe, and the Middle East, we are united by one common purpose - we excel in creating sustainable solutions for a better world.Job DescriptionBESIX Watpac are looking for a legal resource to join our fast paced and dynamic team on a 12-month Maternity Leave cover basis, reporting to the business unit Commercial Manager. This role will be based in our Melbourne office providing support to our Victorian and South Australian business unit. The key responsibilities of this position include:

• Ensure compliance with BESIX Watpac's policies and procedures;
• Prepare legal and commercial benchmark reviews of tender head contracts;
• Report on legal risks in tenders and work with tender teams to address these;
• Prepare returnable schedules outlining proposed head contract departures including where required, preparing amendments to the head contract;
• Preparation and negotiation of any consultancy agreements, JV agreements, confidentiality deeds and the like required for tender submission including ensuring agreements meet the requirements of any issued RFT; and
• Review and respond to proposed departures by subcontractors and consultants to BESIX Watpac's template suite of agreements;
• Preparation of Subcontract, Consultant and Supply Agreements to align with executed head contract terms.
• Work with construction bid lead to ensure our response on contractual and legal terms reflects the reality of risk as applicable for the relevant project and a proactive approach.
• Actively strategise and assist in driving the strategy and best course of action (legal and non-legal) to close old project issues or potential action. Understands that minimising legal and dispute related pathways is important.
• In conjunction with the Commercial Manager - Vic & SA, maintain the Important Document register and manage the issue and return of all head contract bank guarantees / insurance bonds
• In consultation with the General Manager, Group Commercial Manager and Group Contracts Manager, and consistent with the Schedule of Delegated Authority, manage the Vic & SA Construction division's commercial issues, minor and major contract disputes including insurance matters.
• Provide general legal and commercial advice to the Vic & SA business.
• Assist with coordination and management of external Legal Counsel.

QualificationsThe incumbent in this role will require the following qualifications and experience:

• Tertiary qualifications in law;
• 5+ years PQE as a solicitor, holding a practicing certificate in Victoria;
• Solid experience in construction law (preferably with front end experience);
• Research and analytical skills related to legal matters;
• Sound problem solving skills and the ability to exercise balanced and commercial judgement;
• High level of attention to detail;
• Ability to communicate, influence and build effective relationships at all levels of the business;
• Demonstrated ability to operate autonomously using initiative, sound reasoning, listening and decision making skills.

Additional InformationAlong with a competitive remuneration package and long-term career development opportunities, our employees enjoy access to the following benefits:

• Flexible work arrangements to balance work and personal commitments.
• Awards and Recognition Program, rewarding employees who bring our values to life.
• Access to a wellbeing program including annual skin checks and flu vaccinations.
• Corporate discounts to gym memberships, meal subscriptions and more.
• Social events and Family Days.

At BESIX Watpac, we are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone is valued, supported and respected. By embracing all ages, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, education and appearance, our people feel safe, empowered, and motivated to be their best. If you're excited about this role but don't tick all the boxes, we encourage you to apply if you have transferable skills and believe you would be a great fit with BESIX Watpac.Join our talented and passionate team delivering once-in-a-generation projects.BESIX Watpac acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we live and work, and pay respect to the Elders past, present and emerging.