WHO WE AREKnown best as the 'Undisputed King of Trainers', JD Sports reigns supreme as one of the biggest and best global Sports Fashion brands across footwear and apparel.Founded in 1981 in Greater Manchester UK, JD Group has achieved remarkable growth through rapid global expansion, now standing as the leading global sports fashion retailer. With over 3,400 stores worldwide, we strive to inspire the emerging generation through a captivating connection to the universal culture of Sport, Music, and Fashion.In 2017, JD Sports first launched within the Australian market and has since expanded to 60+ stores. We currently operate in NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, SA & TAS, with plans for continued future growth.Our mission is to offer unparalleled service and style to all our consumers.Working at JD Sports is a state of mind, an attitude and way of challenging the norm. We do not conform; we create our own path and are elite within our field. And now, we're seeking talented and passionate individuals to join our team.THE ROLEJD Sports is seeking a meticulous and experienced General Counsel to join our Legal team in Sydney. In this role, you will act as a key advisor, providing legal, governance, risk, and compliance support across JD Sports' operations in Australia and New Zealand. This role focuses on property law, employee relation, ESG initiatives, and corporate governance, while collaborating with our Global Legal teams and key stakeholders to ensure regulatory excellence and drive sustainable business practices.Reporting into the Chief Financial & Operating Officer APAC & Company Secretary, this role willbe responsible for, but not limited to:Employment RelationsAdvise the business on all legislative changes to employment relations and awardsAdvice on grievance mattersEnsure overall complianceProperty Law and ContractsAdvise on all property-related legal matters, including lease negotiations, renewals, acquisitions, and disposalsDraft, review, and negotiate a range of property agreements to support operational growth and expansionEnsure compliance with property laws and mitigate risks across the retail store portfolioESG Compliance and StrategyProvide legal guidance on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, ensuring alignment with global best practices and local legislationSupport key compliance programs, such as modern slavery, sustainability reporting, and ethical business frameworksPartner with internal stakeholders to integrate ESG principles into operations and reportingCorporate GovernanceDevelop, implement, and oversee governance frameworks, policies, and programs to ensure legal and regulatory complianceAdvise the Board and Senior Leadership Team on governance matters and evolving legislative changesCollaborate with the JD Sports Group Legal team on global governance and regulatory initiativesCommercial and Operational Legal SupportOffer practical and commercially focused legal advice across areas such as consumer law, intellectual property, employment law, promotions, and data protectionDraft, review, and negotiate a variety of commercial contracts, including supplier agreements, service contracts, marketing, and software licensing agreementsProvide guidance on privacy, data security, and IT-related compliance mattersDisputes and Risk ManagementManage and resolve legal disputes, regulatory issues, and compliance risks effectivelyIdentify emerging legal risks and implement proactive solutions to mitigate business impactLead investigations and develop recommendations for policy updates to strengthen risk controlsCollaboration and Stakeholder EngagementPartner with senior leaders across Marketing, Multi-Channel, Property, Projects, and People teams to deliver clear, actionable legal counselBuild strong relationships with external legal counsel, regulatory bodies, and JD Sports' global teams to align legal and governance strategiesWHO YOU AREMinimum 8+ years' experience, ideally within the retail, property, or commercial sectors in a similar roleCombined Bachelor's degree in Law (LLB), Master of Laws (LLM) or Juris Doctor (JD) with strong academic credentialsProven expertise in property law, lease management, and real estate transactionsDemonstrated experience in ESG legal compliance and governance frameworksStrong commercial contract drafting, negotiation, and dispute resolution skillsFamiliarity with ANZ regulatory and legislative environmentsExperience partnering with senior leadership and managing external legal counselWHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?Monthly culture committee eventsCentral CBD locationPre-pay day lunchesBirthday leaveCompetitive SalaryOne month paid parental leaveReferral bonus schemeTraining and development to evolve and shape your careerOpportunity to progress across all areas of the business including Retail, Support Office and our Distribution CentreTreat yourself with our attractive staff discount! This can also be used for friends and familyAccess to our Employee Assistance Program & Mental Health championsWe are passionate about connecting with driven and skilled individuals who are invested in their development, so that together we can evolve our brand's success, alongside evolving your career.JD values diversity and inclusion and champions a culture where everyone feels, valued, included, and celebrated.What are you waiting for? Apply today and kick start your JD Sports Journey.Please note, by applying for this role, you consent to us completing a Work Rights check to verify your working rights where required.
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