This is a rare opportunity for an experienced property lawyer to step into a Special Counsel or Senior Associate role with genuine leadership responsibility, working closely alongside an established Property Partner and helping drive the continued growth of the practice.
You’ll take ownership of sophisticated property matters, key client and referrer relationships and the development of the wider team. This is not simply a senior technical position — the successful candidate will become a trusted second-in-command, with the opportunity to influence the direction of the practice and, over time, build towards a partnership opportunity.
The role would suit a property lawyer who combines strong technical capability with commercial judgement, leadership skills and a low-ego approach to working with clients and colleagues.
The opportunity - Become a genuine 2IC to an experienced Property Partner and play a key role in the team's growth.
- Work with sophisticated private clients, developers, investors and businesses across complex property matters.
- Take ownership of key client and referrer relationships, with significant scope to develop your own practice.
- Mentor and guide the wider team, providing senior-level support and technical oversight.
- Work closely with an established referral network, with genuine support to grow your own profile and client base.
- Build towards future partnership, with the opportunity to progress based on the value you bring to the practice and your ability to develop strong client relationships.
You’ll work across a broad range of sophisticated property and development matters, including: - Commercial property acquisitions and disposals
- Property development and development agreements
- Commercial, industrial and retail leasing
- Property due diligence
- Property structuring and related duty, GST and land tax considerations
- Property finance
- Easements, covenants and title matters
- Compulsory acquisition and infrastructure matters
- Land use and planning issues associated with property transactions
You’ll ideally bring: - 8+ years property experience
- Strong technical capability across sophisticated property matters
- The confidence to manage significant matters and client relationships autonomously
- Strong commercial judgement and excellent communication skills
- A genuine interest in mentoring and developing junior lawyers
- A collaborative, approachable and low-ego style
- An established referral network or the ability to develop one over time
You’ll join a high-quality boutique environment that has deliberately built a practice around sophisticated work, strong client relationships and experienced lawyers, without the expectations and rigidity often associated with larger firms.
The team operates with a sensible daily billable target, genuine flexibility around working arrangements, and a strong focus on sustainable performance. There is also a substantial bonus opportunity, including incentives linked to performance and referred work.
Most importantly, this is a role where your contribution will be visible. You’ll have direct access to senior practitioners, meaningful influence over the team and a genuine platform to build your own practice.
If you’re an established property lawyer looking for a true second-in-command role, greater influence and a potential pathway towards partnership, this is an opportunity worth exploring.
Apply now or reach out to Lauren Benstead on (03) 9077 7491 or via email lauren.benstead@engagepersonnel.com.au for a confidential chat.
Not quite the right role? Let’s talk anyway. I have a range of opportunities that could be the perfect fit for you, and I'd love to hear from you!
