The Chief Ombudsman works with his staff to help New Zealanders in their dealings with government agencies. The focus is on handling complaints against government agencies, undertaking investigations and inspections, and encouraging good administration. The Chief Ombudsman is independent and impartial, with the goal of fairness for all.

Mō tō mātou tira – About the team

The Legal team is responsible for all legal advice and services to the Ombudsman. Most of the work involves supporting the Ombudsman's core functions (including under the Ombudsmen Act 1975, the Official Information Act 1982, the Crimes of Torture Act 1989 and the Protected Disclosures Act 2000), but the team is also responsible for legal input into corporate and governance matters.

There are currently three experienced Lawyers and an Administrator in the team.

Mō te tūranga - About the role

The establishment of a new Lawyer position reflects continued growth in demand for legal support across the Ombudsman's work. The Lawyer will provide specialist legal support across all areas of the Ombudsmen's jurisdiction and functions drawing on support from the wider Legal team where necessary.  The Lawyer will be providing advice directly as well as supporting the more experienced lawyers in the team with complex work.

He kōrero mōu – About you

This role would be ideally suited to a recent graduate with some practicing experience who is keen to hone their legal skills in a supportive and stimulating legal environment.

To be successful in this role you will be a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand and eligible to obtain a current practising certificate as well as:

• One – two years recent post admission experience as a lawyer, in the private or public sector, domestically or overseas
• Experience in delivering high quality and timely legal advice
• Excellent legal research skills
• Knowledge of constitutional and administrative law and experience in their practice
• A proven ability in managing internal and external relationships with a variety of stakeholders in a challenging environment.
• Experience in managing litigation and dispute resolution processes and negotiations is desirable
• General experience or interest in corporate/commercial and employment law would be advantageous