Join one of Australia's most successful and recognised franchise businesses in a pivotal in-house legal role. Our client is the market leader in its sector, operating a substantial franchised network across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, and forms part of a global hospitality group with an extensive international footprint. Reporting to the General Counsel, this is an outstanding opportunity for an experienced commercial lawyer to become a trusted adviser to senior leadership while supporting the continued growth of a sophisticated, highly regarded business. The Role This is a maternity cover 14 month contract role. It is a broad and autonomous role combines franchising, commercial and property law, with exposure to strategic business initiatives and high-value transactions. You will partner closely with senior executives across Franchising, Procurement, Brand & ESG, and Sales & Distribution, delivering practical, commercially focused legal advice. Your responsibilities will include: Drafting and negotiating franchise agreements, renewals and associated documentation, including disclosure documents and information memoranda. Preparing and negotiating business sale agreements for franchise acquisitions and resales. Advising on compliance with the Franchising Code of Conduct and providing strategic advice on franchise-related matters. Drafting, reviewing and negotiating commercial leases, lease renewals and lease variations across a national franchise network. Advising franchisees and internal stakeholders on leasing and property issues. Reviewing and negotiating a broad range of commercial agreements, including procurement, marketing, sales and distribution contracts. Managing the organisation's intellectual property portfolio. Developing legal processes, templates and best practice documentation to support business efficiency and effective risk management. About You You will be a commercially minded lawyer who enjoys building relationships and providing practical legal solutions within a dynamic business environment. Ideally you will have: At least 5 years' post-admission experience gained in a reputable law firm and/or established in-house legal team. Strong experience drafting and negotiating franchise agreements and commercial contracts. Experience advising on commercial leasing and property transactions. Working knowledge of the Franchising Code of Conduct. Excellent drafting, negotiation and stakeholder management skills. A collaborative, proactive and pragmatic approach to legal practice. Strong organisational skills and exceptional attention to detail. Experience advising franchise, retail, hospitality or other multi-site businesses will be highly regarded. The Benefits This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly respected in-house legal function within a successful, growing organisation offering: High-quality commercial, franchising and property work. A genuine business partnering role with significant autonomy. Direct exposure to senior leadership and strategic decision-making. A collaborative and supportive culture. Flexible hybrid working (three days per week in the office). Excellent work-life balance. Competitive remuneration and long-term career opportunities within a leading national business. This role offers the chance to work on varied, high-value matters while making a genuine contribution to the ongoing success of a market-leading organisation. For a confidential discussion, or to apply, please submit your CV to emily@bplr.com.au or call 0475412674.
