Senior Solicitor | Auckland

Job Description

• Litigator required for in-house team
• Challenging and varied role in a dynamic environment
• Permanent position, Auckland based

The purpose of The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is to Grow New Zealand for All. 

We will do this by helping businesses to become more productive and internationally competitive, and by increasing opportunities for all New Zealanders to contribute to the economy. 

At MBIE, we look for people who are passionate about New Zealand and enthusiastic about making a positive change to our economy, our people and our safety. If you would like to play an integral part in our Ministry, then read on. 

As part of the Corporate, Governance and Information Group the Legal, Ethics and Privacy Branch is responsible for providing a centre of legal advice, leadership and expertise for the Ministry, and an exemplar of best practice for both the public service and the wider New Zealand labour and business markets. 

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a litigator to join our Auckland based litigation team as a senior solicitor. In this role you will advise on and appear in proceedings before a variety of Courts, Tribunals and Licensing Boards on civil and criminal matters arising in relation to the broad range of enforcement activities across MBIE. These include: enforcement of minimum employment standards in the Employment Relations Authority and Employment Court, refugee and deportation appeals in the Immigration and Protection Tribunal, disciplinary complaints before occupational licensing boards, prosecutions and appeals in the District Court on proceedings, and appearances before the Tenancy Tribunal. 

To be successful in this highly paced role, you will need to have the following: 

• A tertiary qualification in law and the ability to obtain a current practising certificate
• A team player ethos across the litigation team and legal branch
• Strong technical skills
• Well-developed written and verbal communication skills and ability to draft legal documentation
• Experience in civil litigation
• Strong relationship management skills
• Enthusiasm, drive and proactive nature
• A full, clean NZ Driver's Licence

The successful candidate will ideally have a strong and proven employment law background with experience in litigation before the Employment Relations Authority and Employment Court. Some knowledge of regulatory enforcement litigation is also highly desirable.

MBIE works to better support connect and strengthen businesses. It backs New Zealand's talent, ideas and business enterprise through ensuring safe and fair workplaces, developing and supporting the science and innovation system, better supporting businesses and streamlining regulation.

Please click on the ‘Apply' button which will take you to our website where you can read the position description. To apply, complete the application form and submit your CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for this role.  For further information please contact Amber Tam at amber.tam@mbie.govt.nz

Applications close at 5 pm on Tuesday, 9 March 2021.