Special Counsel (Front End Construction)
Hays
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a frontend construction Special Counsel to join a highly regarded national firm with a strong reputation across the building and infrastructure sector.
This role sits within a well-established construction practice known for delivering commercial, pragmatic and strategic advice across major projects. The team advises a broad client base across the full lifecycle of construction and infrastructure developments.
The Role
This is a senior front-end-focused position with a strong advisory and transactional focus including:
- Advising on construction and infrastructure projects from early procurement through to delivery
- Drafting and negotiating a range of project documentation, including building contracts and consultancy agreements
- Structuring and advising on risk allocation and project frameworks
- Providing strategic advice to clients on commercial and legal risks during development and delivery phases
- Supporting clients across both private and public sector projects
- Working closely with senior stakeholders to deliver practical, business-focused advice
You will also have the opportunity to play a key role in mentoring junior lawyers and contributing to the continued growth of the practice.
The Practice
This team is recognised for its end-to-end construction capability, covering:
- Front-end contracting and procurement strategy
- Project risk management and advisory
- Back-end disputes (where required)
- Regulatory and compliance issues
The group works across a diverse range of projects, including:
- Residential and mixed-use developments
- Commercial and retail projects
- Major infrastructure and civil works (roads, rail energy)
- Health, aged care and large-scale developments
Clients include developers, government bodies, contractors, consultants and financiers, offering broad and high-quality exposure.
About You
- Admitted to practice as a lawyer in Australia
- Senior construction lawyer with strong front-end experience
- Currently operating at Senior Associate or Special Counsel level
- Proven experience drafting and negotiating construction contracts and project documentation
- Strong commercial acumen and ability to provide strategic, solutions-focuse advice
- Experience advising developers, contractors or public sector clients
- Confident engaging directly with clients and senior stakeholders
What’s on Offer
- Attractive salary package
- High-quality, top-tier calibre work without the traditional rigid structure
- Flexible working arrangements – 3 days in office 2days from home
- Opportunity to work across complex, high-value projects
- Supportive and collaborative team environment with strong leadership
- Pathway for progression
Why This Role?
This is a standout opportunity for a senior construction lawyer looking to step into a strategic front-end advisory role, working on complex projects with a firm that values commerciality, autonomy and client relationships.
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or contact Laura on 0280626176/***email_hidden***
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position or an update on the market, feel free to contact Laura from a confidential conversation.