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Position vacant: Manager, Policy & Programs

Thursday, 8 September 2022

Position vacant: Manager, Policy & Programs

The ACT Law Society is the peak body for legal practitioners in the ACT. The Society represents, advances, and defends the interests of an independent legal profession in the ACT. We also protect the public interest in the ACT system of justice through efficient regulation of the profession.

We are a small, dedicated, and supportive team of staff working with more than 3,000 members across all parts of the legal profession in the ACT. The Society advocates for the profession with key stakeholders and provides a range of services for members, including providing information resources and guidance, and delivering a range of continuing professional development and networking activities throughout the year.

About the role

This is a newly created position which will support the CEO to implement the Society’s strategic initiatives by overseeing operations in relation to policy and advocacy, educational programs, and member engagement and support. 

The position is based in the Canberra CBD and forms part of the Society’s leadership team, which currently includes the CEO, Professional Standards Manager and Finance & Business Services Manager. The role will have responsibility for a team of 8 staff and will also require strong management, administrative, and financial skills as the position may deputise for the CEO as required. 

The position is responsible for the management and delivery of policy and advocacy, education, and engagement programs, including ensuring there are internal policies and procedures to support this work, and providing input to the annual budget and reporting processes. 

The role is full-time but negotiable to 4 days per week for the right candidate. 

Key responsibilities

  • Work with the Society’s special interest committees to identify, research, and advocate on law reform issues of relevance to the ACT legal profession and community, and to develop guidance for members 
  • Prepare submissions on legal policy issues, represent the Society with external stakeholders, and conduct research, with support from the policy and research team
  • Drive the design and delivery of a high quality education and professional development program that meets the requirements of the Society’s diverse membership
  • Develop and maintain a member engagement strategy 
  • Review and monitor the Society’s legal referral and information services
  • Oversee member benefits and services
  • Work with the Communications Officer to ensure member web content is current and relevant
  • Manage a team of 8 staff across the policy, education and member support functions, including recruitment and performance management

About you

As the successful applicant, you will bring strong experience managing staff to deliver effective projects and programs and engaging effectively with stakeholders at all levels. You will enjoy being part of a small, collaborative team and have the motivation to grow our influence and impact.

Selection criteria

Essential

  • Demonstrated experience in the delivery of projects, policies and programs
  • Demonstrated experience with advocacy work, including preparing submissions and engagement with government and other stakeholders
  • Exceptional written and oral communication skills
  • Strong people leadership skills and people management experience
  • Flexibility to work outside of standard hours on occasion, commensurate with the level of the position

Desirable

  • Tertiary qualifications in a relevant field - legal qualifications will be well regarded but are not essential
  • Experience working in a member-based organisation 
  • Knowledge and understanding of the legal services sector

Why join us

  • Work with the peak body for legal practitioners in the ACT and contribute to our work maintaining high professional standards and advocating for good law in the ACT
  • 35-hour full time work week 
  • Flexibility with hours of work
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Annual flu vaccination
  • Additional paid leave between Boxing Day and New Year

How to apply

Applications should be submitted to mail@actlawsociety.asn.au with “Policy & Programs” in the subject line. Please include a current CV and a two-page statement outlining your interest and relevant experience for the position, together with the details of two referees who can comment on your relevant skills and experience. Applicants who do not follow the application process will not be considered.

Enquiries about the position can be made to the CEO by emailing mail@actlawsociety.asn.au

Applications close 5pm Monday 10 October 2022.