The Company…..
With year on year growth, an expanding financial services provider specialises in delivering customised finance solutions for individuals and businesses has a vacancy for a commercial General Counsel to lead the legal and regulatory functions of the non-bank lending business. This executive role is responsible for ensuring the company complies with all relevant laws and regulatory requirements, including those set by ASIC, AUSTRAC, and AFCA. As a key member of the executive team, the General Counsel will provide legal advice on corporate governance, credit and lending regulations, risk management, disputes, and commercial transactions.
This is an opportunity to influence business strategy and help shape the future of a growing financial services organisation focused on delivering innovative lending solutions to Australian consumers and businesses.
The Job…..
Legal & Regulatory Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, including the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), National Consumer Credit Protection Act 2009 (Cth), Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), and anti-money laundering legislation.
- Oversee the organisation’s Australian Credit Licence (ACL) and/or AFSL, ensuring all licensing and reporting obligations are met.
- Liaise with ASIC, AUSTRAC, AFCA, and other regulatory bodies on compliance and regulatory matters.
- Develop and maintain internal policies covering lending practices, privacy, responsible lending, and financial crime compliance.
- Advise the Board and executive team on corporate governance, director obligations, and risk management.
- Monitor changes in the regulatory landscape and assess the impact on the business.
- Lead the implementation of governance frameworks and compliance monitoring systems.
- Draft, negotiate, and review a wide range of commercial agreements, including loan agreements, service contracts, fintech partnerships, and joint ventures.
- Provide legal support for the structuring, marketing, and distribution of credit products.
- Lead the management of disputes, complaints, and litigation, including dealings with regulators and external dispute resolution bodies such as AFCA.
- Implement strategies to mitigate legal risks and reduce exposure to claims.
- Ensure compliance with the Privacy Act and related data protection obligations.
- Provide guidance on cybersecurity and data breach management in line with CPS 234 and industry best practice.
- Provide timely, strategic legal advice to the CEO, executive team, and Board.
- Act as the company’s key legal representative in regulatory discussions, industry consultations, and stakeholder negotiations.
- Lead and develop the internal legal and compliance team, embedding a culture of risk awareness and legal integrity.
To be successful in this role, you will have:
- Law degree (LLB or JD) and admission to practice law in Australia.
- Minimum 3+ years’ experience working as a General Counsel, with exposure to the credit and / or lending.
- Deep understanding of the regulatory environment for non-bank lenders, including ASIC, AUSTRAC, and AFCA requirements.
- Proven track record advising senior stakeholders on legal strategy, governance, and compliance.
- Extensive knowledge and experience in Australian credit-related law, including the National Consumer Credit Protection Act 2009 (NCCP Act) and other relevant regulations
- Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and negotiation skills.
Are you a dynamic and experienced General Counsel eager to collaborate with senior leadership at a fast-growing non-bank lender? If you're ready to shape strategy, drive innovation, and position the business for its next phase of expansion, this could be the perfect opportunity for you! To find out more please call Jenny on 0450 404 407 for a confidential conversation or email jquigley@sbrecruitment.com
