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WHO WE ARE
Our service delivery proposition is simple - deliver high quality recruitment outcomes for the New Zealand legal sector.
The CoLegal brand is newly established in 2021, but our legal recruitment practice has been operating since 2016 as part of multi-disciplinary agency Cobalt Recruitment. Auckland based but with a national and international reach we recruit professional legal and legal support roles at all levels of business for private practice and in-house positions.
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Anand Ranchhod
Managing Director
Anand started off his career as a property and commercial lawyer, gaining experience working in smaller and larger NZ law firms. As many kiwis do, he went on his OE in the UK for a couple of years, and worked as Legal Counsel for a leading financial services organisation in London. Eventually, he felt the pull back home which is where he shifted in to legal recruitment in 2015. Anand made the move into legal recruitment because it combined his passion for working with people, but also allowed him to use his legal experience and connections to help employers find top legal talent as well as guide lawyers through their careers – something that he finds personally very rewarding. Anand holds an LLB and BCom (marketing major) degree from the University of Auckland. He also has received a Prince2 practitioner qualified certification for project management.Anand has been externally recognised for his work in legal recruitment - he was the winner of the 2022 RCSA Recruitment Professional of the Year Award and the winner of the 2020 RCSA Rising Star Award. Outside of work, he may be spotted around a new haunt in town, cycling through the Eastern bays or chasing his Greyhound through a park (usually out of breath trying to catch up with him!).
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Liz Sloan
Principal Consultant
Liz has been working in legal recruitment for several years and specialises in sourcing lawyers and legal support staff for both private practice and in-house roles across the South Island. She has a real passion for connecting people with a job that will be a perfect fit for their career goals and finding the best talent for firms and businesses in order to help their teams succeed.Born and bred in Christchurch, Liz enjoys building relationships with her clients and candidates across the country and enjoys the challenge of finding the best possible outcome for both parties. Liz has had a varied career, working in the wine industry, health and fitness community and personal coaching and development. It was in this last role that she realised the importance a person’s job has on their overall life satisfaction and health and wellbeing. It was this interest in helping people find work that they love that led her to recruitment.Outside the office, Liz enjoys working out at the gym, reading, exploring a new restaurant or café or listening to an inspiring podcast.
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Simone Macdonald
Principal Consultant - Legal Support
Simone started her recruitment career in 2015, specialising in Business Support, Finance & Accounting prior to joining CoLegal in 2021. She joined CoLegal as she has always been fascinated with the legal sector and now uses her skills to recruit exceptional legal support talent to strengthen law firms and organisations with candidates that add value from the get-go. She enjoys spending quality time with individuals and clients to ensure she better understands the needs and requirements of each to establish solid career and recruiting decisions for both parties. Prior to recruitment Simone started her career in travel where she was able to see the world and explore, which suited her to a tee as she is naturally adventurous.When Simone is not in the office you will often find her in amongst nature, walking, hiking as well as being surrounded by her friends and family as she loves being social, having a laugh and creating memories.
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Bob Kou
Senior Consultant
Bob has over 10 years' experience as a specialist Legal & Compliance recruiter within an international context. Bob started his career in legal recruitment after graduating from the Brunel University of London with a Marketing and Branding degree. He then moved into Recruitment and begun placing Lawyers and Professionals into roles ranging from Legal Counsel to Head of Legal within multi-national organisations, as well as Lawyers within leading law firms in China and NZ.Before joining CoLegal, Bob worked in Legal recruitment for a global recruitment agency as well as the longest-established boutique legal recruitment agency across Asia. Bob, along with his wife moved to New Zealand in 2023. Bob is excited to use his legal recruitment skills to assist clients and candidates in achieving top outcomes and adding value to their searches. In his spare time, Bob enjoys travelling to unique and wonderful places or going on a hike with his family and friends. He's also an avid basketball fan so if you need to consult with him for your legal career or anything basketball related, he is the go-to person.
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Jenny Gallagher
Senior Consultant
Jenny comes from a background in Legal and Accounting and Finance recruitment. She joined CoLegal as she is committed to identifying and placing the best legal talent in roles that align with both the candidate's expertise and the firm's strategic goals. Her comprehensive knowledge of the legal market in New Zealand, combined with a personalised approach to client and candidate relationships, sets her apart in the recruitment field. Jenny's passion for fostering long-term partnerships is evident in her attention to detail and commitment to understanding the unique needs of both clients and candidates. She thrives on navigating the legal landscape, ensuring that professionals find opportunities that not only match their skills but also align with their career aspirations. Jenny has had a varied career, working within the travel, education, professional services and e-commerce industries. Beyond the office, Jenny can be found with her family exploring Auckland's dog-friendly beaches and bushwalks, or sampling some of the best restaurants Auckland has to offer.
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Guy Davidson
Director
Guy has been working in recruitment since 2007 when he joined Cobalt Recruitment in London. In 2009 he set Cobalt up in New Zealand where he ran it for the UK based group business until July 2020 at which point he bought the NZ business interests from the group. He is now Director/Co-Owner of three high performing specialist recruitment business's including CoLegal which he set up with his business partners, Adam Walker and Anand Ranchhod. The move to legal recruitment was a natural transition for Guy who has a personal relationship with the sector via his father Nick who was both a lawyer and a Judge over his long career.Guy has an unshakeable belief that engaging with a high quality recruitment consultancy is one of the most valuable service relationships any business will hold. Winning the battle for talent is only going to become more challenging and agencies like CoLegal are positioned to help employers overcome that challenge.Outside of voicing his opinions on what good recruitment looks like, Guy is kept fully occupied by his young family, love of sports and the occasional glass of good red.
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Kimberly Champion
Group Operations Manager
Kimberly has over a decade of operations management experience working with a range of different NZ businesses. Since entering into the recruitment industry back in 2016, she is now providing Group Operations Management for Assemble and two other specialised recruitment brands. She is absolutely the glue that binds business operations allowing our consultants to focus all of their energy on working with clients and candidates. She brings a highly analytical, solution-focused approach to her work and is always obsessively looking for improvements that can be made, to the detriment of her famous "to-do" list! When she isn't in the office or making the long commute to the Waitakere Ranges, you’ll find Kimberly watching American motorsports with her family and a cold glass of rose!
FIND THE NEXT ROLE FOR YOU
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Auckland
$160k+ benefits (dep on exp)
Employment Relations Counsel | Senior
The Organisation Starting out as a single car park in Australia in 1962, Wilson Parking and FIRST Security have become household names in the world of parking and security services in New Zealand, and forming part of the broader Wilson Group across Australia and Asia. They are now looking to hire an experienced, pragmatic Employment Lawyer to support the two businesses and deliver best practice employee relations advice and strategic legal guidance for the businesses. The group employs over 10,000 staff across NZ and Australia with a culture underpinned by their values of Care, Integrity, Accountability and Innovation. The Role As the lead Employment Relations Counsel in NZ, you would manage the end-to-end ER projects and matters within the NZ group and report to the Group Workplace Relations Counsel (based in Australia). Day-to-day you would work with key internal and external stakeholders as you develop and implement employee and industrial relations strategies in line with the strategic direction of the group, employee relations function and broader Wilson Group HR team. This position plays a key role in providing critical support to the two NZ businesses in end-to-end ER/IR advice, case management and project delivery and also provides support to the senior management team, human resources, payroll and health & safety functions. This role reports to the Group Workplace Relations Counsel (based in Australia) and sits independently of the two NZ business units. Duties & Accountabilities include: Manage cases at mediation and before the Employment Relations Authority; Deliver accurate, pragmatic and timely workplace relations advice in relation to matters of compliance, strategy and risk including in relation to bargaining and disputation strategy; Provide expert legal counsel on employment law matters including hiring, performance management, disciplinary processes and terminations; Draft, review and update employment contracts, policies, procedures to align with NZ requirements; Support change management initiatives, including restructures, redundancies and workplace planning; Provide training and guidance to HR and management on employment law developments and best practices; Monitor changes or developments in relevant legislation, regulations and standards to provide advice to the two NZ business units and the Group regarding the same; Manage engagement of external legal advisors when necessary; Ensure compliance with legislative requirements, proactively identifying potential risks. The Ideal Candidate will have: 5+ years’ PQE in employment law and/or employment relations work, with a LLB; Experience in both advisory and contentious employment law matters including complex workplace investigations, PG claims, restructuring matters, performance management and provide advice on employment agreements as well as relevant company policies; An ability to work collaboratively with multiple business units within a fast-paced environment; Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships well across the business; and A solution-focused and proactive approach to their work. Perhaps you're currently an ER Specialist looking for an opportunity to take a lead role in an organisation where you can make a valued contribution to shaping workplace practices? Or you may be an Employment Lawyer looking to take your skills into an in-house environment where you can see how your advice is implemented across the business? Either way, get in touch to find out more about this exciting opportunity. For further information, contact Anand Ranchhod on 027 2746 186 or email your CV to anand@colegal.co.nz or to us by clicking APPLY now. All enquiries will be handled with the strictest of confidence. This position is being managed exclusively by CoLegal and all direct or third-party applications will be forward to CoLegal for screening.
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Auckland
Property Solicitor
Property Lawyer 2+ PQE | City Fringe Are you a property lawyer with at least two years of experience looking to step up in your career? This is an opportunity to join a well-established, reputable firm on the city fringe, working alongside a respected partner in a strong commercial and property team. You’ll be working on a range of interesting matters, including: Subdivision, development, and project-related work Sale and purchase of commercial properties and businesses Leasing and general conveyancing What We’re Looking For We’re after a lawyer with a solid grounding in property law, good instincts, and the ability to provide practical solutions to clients. You’ll need to be confident in managing files and communicating effectively. Candidates who speak Cantonese or Mandarin are preferred, though this isn’t essential. What’s on Offer A competitive salary An onsite carpark Strong admin support so you can focus on your clients A collaborative and professional environment with quality work and mentorship If this sounds like the right next step for you, get in touch for a confidential chat contact Jenny 027 874 0993 or send your CV and academic record to jenny@colegal.co.nz or by clicking on ‘QUICK APPLY’ now.
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Auckland
plus additional benefits
Financial Services Advisory Lawyer | 3+ years PQE
The Opportunity: A fantastic position within a market leading Financial Services advisory and regulatory team. We are recruiting for an intermediate level Lawyer with an interest in working for fund managers, financial institutions, investment funds and corporate clients in a role that involves FS advisory, Fintech and regulatory projects. The culture at this firm is friendly, supportive, progressive, with modern operating systems and flexible working conditions for staff. You'll be working with a top clientele and be at the forefront of advising clients through regulatory changes and matters spanning the spectrum from the climate-related disclosure to the regulation of financial institutions.About you: 3-6 years PQE experience gained in a Corporate, Banking or a Financial Service team at a leading law firm or in a relevant in-house legal role; Strong interest in developing your career in the financial services area; Good academics (B average or higher in your LLB is key); A Commerce degree with a Finance or Economics focus would be a bonus. You may have gained experience in a firm working with commercial clients in this sector or as in-house counsel at a bank and are now keen to specialise in financial services and fintech field as part of a specialist team. Get in touch today to learn more. To discuss further, contact Bob Kou 027 274 5926 or email your CV and academic transcript to bob@colegal.co.nz or apply by clicking 'APPLY' now.
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Auckland
$80k - $120k + K/Saver dep on exp
Legal Executive | Residential & Commercial Property
Located in the heart of the CBD, this boutique law firm blends professionalism with a relaxed and approachable style. Committed to strong values and a client first approach, the firm specialises in both commercial and residential property law. Every team member is dedicated to making the law accessible and understandable for all, ensuring clients receive clear, practical, and tailored legal advice. The Role: Reporting to one of the Senior Partners, you will be able to align yourself with a high performing and driven team. This is a fast-paced and dynamic firm where you will be working with private and commercial clients on residential conveyancing matters, commercial leasing, franchise agreements, sale and purchase of SME businesses, and finance related matters. Your day-to-day responsibilities will be to: Maintain client relationships and act on instructions throughout the transaction relating to buying, selling, and developing property, businesses, and lease agreements Facilitate all commercial property transactions from pre-contract to post-settlement phases inclusive of subdivision files Work towards and adhere to key performance and budgets around billable hours Assist and support the Partners as and when required About You:This role would suit an experienced commercial property Legal Executive with an established client base who is eager to align their future career with a firm who will encourage them to operate at a senior level in the firm, however, we are also interested in speaking to a well established general practice Legal Executive who has mainly operated in residential conveyancing as well as had exposure to franchise and lease agreements. Therefore, you will be a confident fee earner within your firm who is team driven, keen to support and share knowledge, able to work in a cohesive and collaborative environment. What's on Offer: You will be joining likeminded individuals that are high performing, collaborative, and engaged in their work. You will be a part of a team that is motivated to exceed client expectations, where successes are celebrated, and problems are solved together. Not only will you be a valued member, but on offer (experienced dependant) is: Salary of $80,000 - $120,000 dependant on experience A bonus structure is on offer for those Legal Executives with an established client base Continual mentoring and coaching to ensure career development and goals are achieved Annual salary and performance reviews Flexibility in start and finish times as well as one day WFH each week For further information, contact Simone Macdonald on 021 190 0975 or email your CV to simone@colegal.co.nz or by clicking APPLY now.
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Auckland
Immigration & Litigation Solicitor | 0-2 years PQE
About the firm & opportunity We are working with a well established law practice in Auckland, that is recruiting for an additional lawyer for its team. Working closely with a senior, your work will involve advising clients on visa applications, submissions for appeals, investor and accreditation visas amongst other types of dispute resolution work in the civil litigation area too. It's an interesting opportunity to hone your advisory, legal research, drafting and advocacy skills working with private clients from various background, levels of wealth and cultures. There is the ability to have flexibility in start / finish times and a WFH day if needed, so if the location is a consideration, the firm is fully supportive of some flexible working arrangements as it makes sense around team and client meetings. About you: Working proficiency in spoken and written Mandarin and English is required; Completed (or will complete your LLB soon) Completed your Professional Legal Studies and either already admitted to the bar (or soon to be admitted); and An interest in immigration, human rights and dispute resolution and building your career in this area. To discuss further, contact Bob Kou 027 274 5926, or email your CV and academic transcript to bob@colegal.co.nz or by clicking 'APPLY' now.
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Auckland
Legal Trust Accountant / Practice Manager
The firm prides itself on being the cornerstone of their community, with solid systems and processes in place, they are seeking a new Practice Manager to oversee the day to day operations of the firm. Working alongside the Partners and the wider management team, you will be based in a values driven firm, in a fun, dynamic team environment. There is the potential to take on more responsibility over time, however, initially, these duties will be recruiting and onboarding new employees, as well as general staff management, assisting the Directors in time recording and billable, AML compliance, general accounting as well as managing the Trust Account. About You: 5+ years experience as a Trust Accountant or Legal Accountant Worked in MYOB or Xero as well as Actionstep or similar Able to build internal and external relationships with ease as well as develop trust and keep confidentiality on sensitive topics. Be people-focused, keen to train, mentor and coach to ensure the firm is continually productive and working at its best Enjoy working on projects, streamlining internal processes, and creating buy-in from the wider team. What's on Offer:Not only will you be based in a fun and personable team, you will be working closely with the Directors, senior leadership, as well as external stakeholders. It is an opportunity where you will be able to have an influential presence within the firm to ensure best practice is upheld whilst still maintaining the core values of the firm. You will also receive: A salary of $80,000 - $120,000 + KiwiSaver, based on experience This is a Monday to Friday on-site role Full time preferred, or 30 hours per week can be considered Progress your Trust Accounting background into Practice Management Interesting positions like these are few and far between so grab this opportunity whilst you can and contact me ASAP! To find out more, contact Simone on 021 190 0975 or email your CV to simone@colegal.co.nz or click 'APPLY' now.
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Auckland
Senior Commercial Lawyer
An Exciting Opportunity for a Senior Commercial Lawyer at a Respected Long Standing North Shore Firm A reputable firm on the North Shore is looking for a skilled Senior Commercial Lawyer to join their team. Known for its family-friendly environment and strong staff retention, the firm offers flexible working arrangements, including work-from-home options, to support a healthy work-life balance. About the Firm: This respected firm has a long history of providing high-quality legal services to a diverse client base, including corporates, SMEs, charitable organisations and investors. The team works in a collaborative and supportive environment where every member is valued. The Role: As a Senior Commercial Lawyer you will handle a variety of engaging and challenging matters, such as: Assisting with business sales and acquisitions Advising on corporate structuring and restructuring, including preparing shareholders’ agreements Providing guidance on corporate governance and compliance Advising on personal property securities regime compliance Assisting with debt recovery Preparing and advising on commercial leases for landlords and tenants Supporting commercial lending, borrowing, and securities Assisting with the formation and administration of limited partnerships Advising on intellectual property protection and licensing Facilitating the formation and administration of franchise structures Documenting supply, manufacture, and distribution arrangements Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate will be a New Zealand-qualified Commercial Lawyer with a current practising certificate and over 5 years of experience in an equally reputable firm. This role is well-suited for someone who is: Returning from overseas Transitioning back into practice from an in-house role Seeking a role closer to home on the North Shore The firm is open to someone either full-time or part-time (4 days a week) What’s on Offer: Competitive salary Flexible working arrangements, including WFH options A supportive and family-friendly work environment Opportunities for professional growth and development This role offers a great chance for a dedicated professional to join a firm where their skills will be appreciated, and their career can grow. How to Apply: If this opportunity sounds like a good fit, I’d love to hear from you: Send your CV and academic transcript to jenny@colegal.co.nz For a confidential chat, call Jenny Gallagher on 027 874 0993 Or simply click 'QUICK APPLY' NOW to submit your application. All applications will be handled with the strictest confidence. Don't miss out on the chance to join this respected firm and be part of a team where quality work and work-life balance are priorities.
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Auckland
Family, Employment & Civil Litigation Lawyer | 4+ years PQE
The Firm & Opportunity As part of a thriving city fringe based practice, that has a diverse clientele, they're looking to add to their team of highly skilled litigators. You will have solid experience gained in advocacy based work, particularly in family law area, who can assist on a broad range of matters. You can choose to focus on the family law / RP field or do a mix of disputes work with a family law focus. No two days will be the same - you'll be involved in parenting and protection orders, child custody cases, adoption and surrogacy matters to relationship property disputes. About you: 4+ years experience with some experience in family law - ideally having worked in a firm or for a Barrister An ability to build rapport with clients and cut through legal issues; Good communication and problem-solving skills; and Admitted to the NZ Bar. You may be in a litigation role, seeking a supportive environment with decent hours, or in a family law role where you may be wanting greater variety of disputes, where you can continue to help individuals achieve positive outcomes. Either way get in touch to find out more. To discuss further, contact Bob Kou 027 274 5926 or email your CV and academic transcript to bob@colegal.co.nz or apply by clicking 'APPLY' now.
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Auckland
$70k - $85k +K/saver
Senior Legal Secretary | Commercial Property
This well-regarded firm prides themselves on delivering forward thinking and innovative solutions to its clients. With strong values embedded in the firm, you will be a part of a people driven culture that is proactive in ensuring employees are recognised and valued for their hard work. About the Role: Supporting a team of property and commercial solicitors which includes one Partner, Senior Associates and a wider team of Solicitors and Legal Executives, you will working in a fast paced and dynamic work environment. Your main duties will be: End to end management of client files Prepare LINZ e-dealings, A&I forms and other documents ready for settlement Drafting and collating legal documents for both clients and authors in preparation for settlement Liaise with internal and external departments (banks, agents, Council etc) Complete company searches, request discharge of mortgages and prepare resolutions Preparation of end of month billing for the team, and liaising with clients and the finance team on any queries and discrepancies General day to day operational tasks for the team such as diary and email management for the Partner as well as scheduling in meeting, conferences and events and arranging travel arrangements. About you: Ideally, seeking 4+ years of working experience within a law firm in a dedicated property/conveyancing team is essential, however, previous commercial property experience would be advantageous Proven experience working with Microsoft Office and relevant legal practice management systems Process driven, able to work methodically, with a keen eye for detail End of month billing, invoicing, and some financial reporting experience would be preferable A clear communicator who is able to build rapport with ease What's on Offer:This team prides itself on its seamless delivery to their authors and clients, and therefore you will be learning alongside some of the best in the industry. You will also be rewarded with: A salary of $70,000 to $85,000 based on experience Ongoing annual performance and salary reviews Continual career progression on offer For further information, contact Simone Macdonald on 021 190 0975, or click 'APPLY' now to send through your details.
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Auckland
Tech, Media, Telco lawyer | Senior Associate
Join a leading full service practice in its growing specialist Technology, Media & Telecommunications team. This is a great opportunity for a commercial lawyer that has a passion for these sectors and keen to work with clients that range from major players in the telco sector, institutional clients to progressive local government departments. The work involves providing advice throughout the stages of large-scale ICT projects, working on software development and licensing agreements, advising on privacy matters and marketing materials, procurement and supply chain advice.The team culture is down to earth, collaborative and not overly corporate and value those that have a business development outlook as well as commercial acumen. About you: 6+ years' experience as a commercial lawyer with at least some experience in the TMT sector. Those who are currently working in-house and keen to return to a private practice role are of interest also; A client-focused approach and an ability to provide commercially savvy advice; Ability to mentor juniors and takes a collaborative approach; and be able to work with a good level of autonomy. If you're ready for a new challenge in 2025 and are passionate about being an expert in the TMT sector, then enquire now to find out more about this excellent opportunity. Those returning from overseas with relevant experience are very much of interest also. For a confidential chat, contact Anand Ranchhod on 027 2746 186 or email your CV and academic transcript to apply by clicking APPLY now.
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Auckland
$85k - $120k + K/Saver (dep experience)
Legal Executive | Residential Property
This role is perfect for a confident operator with 3+ years of Legal Executive experience in residential conveyancing. Based on the North Shore in modern offices, this firm combines professionalism with a relaxed, values driven culture. Committed to making the law accessible to everyone, they take a client centric approach, ensuring each team member is motivated to deliver exceptional service. You'll be part of a supportive environment where senior team members actively encourage exposure to more complex and intricate matters, fostering continuous learning and professional growth. The Role:Reporting to the Property Partner, you’ll be part of a cohesive team of five, supported by a dedicated secretary for administrative tasks. This high performing and dynamic firm offers the opportunity to work alongside a motivated and driven team. Your role will involve handling a range of matters, including residential conveyancing, lease agreements, trusts and estates, as well as wills and Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPoAs). Your day-to-day responsibilities will be to: Maintain client relationships and act on instructions throughout the property transaction relating to buying, selling, trust and estate matters Manage client files for all transactions from pre-contract to post-settlement inclusive of estate administration, trust management and drafting wills and EPoA's Work towards and adhere to key performance and budgets around billable hours Assist and support the Partner and other solicitors as and when required About You:To excel in this role, you're someone who thrives in a high capacity, yet structured work environment. You will gain exposure to intricate transactions involving private developments, bodies corporate, and commercial lease agreements once you are established in your role. 3+ years’ experience as a registered Legal Executive within a similar role is essential Previous or current experience in creating edealings and confidence with ADLS forms Understanding and knowledge of the regulatory environment and compliance requirements as well as NZ Property Law, terms and methods in relation to conveyancing People focused, able to work in a cohesive and collaborative environment, keen to exceed expectations What's on Offer: You will be joining likeminded individuals that are high performing and driven by exceeding client expectations. They are an engaged, tight knit and supportive group that are exceptional operators in their practice area. $85,000 - $120,000 per annum depending on the level of PQE experience A bonus scheme is on offer for high performing individuals who exceed targets This is a Monday - Friday onsite role, however flexibility and WFH can be negotiated For further information, contact Simone Macdonald on 021 190 0975 or email your CV to simone@colegal.co.nz or by clicking APPLY now.
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