In Retail Banking our customers are at the forefront of everything we do, where the Community Banking team lead and champion the development and success of the Community Bank Model, which is made up of 220 Community Bank Companies with over 1500 Board Directors, covering more than 300 Community Bank Branches. Community Banking is a franchising model based on 'profit-with-purpose', which means our profits are returned directly to the community that has generated them.

Reporting to the Head of Community Banking, the Senior Legal Specialist will:

• Provide advice and guidance as required to ensure we comply with our obligations under the Franchising Code of Conduct and other statutory and regulatory obligations aligned to the Community Bank model.
• Ensure Bendigo Bank and its franchisees meet their obligations under each franchise agreement and to provide strategic advice and guidance of governance, compliance, risk and regulatory matters in all aspects of the Franchise Model including ACCC, ASIC, APRA and AFCA obligations and asset sales and acquisitions. 

This is a Permanent position working Full time hours where we offer flexible work options that put our people first, and a hybrid model with a minimum requirement of 40% of your time per week in the office, increasing to 60% as of July 2025, in a local Head Office where we are open to all locations Australia-wide.

What you'll bring to the role

• Strong understanding of the Franchising Code of Conduct (or ability to quickly learn), Corporations Law and other statutory and regulator requirements under the Community Bank model
• Understanding legislative impacts from a government perspective
• Demonstrated legal experience ideally within a Banking, Finance, Franchising, regulatory or compliance industries
• Understanding of Banking, Finance and franchising governance frameworks and associated regulatory bodies
• Ability to demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of company structures and local company frameworks
• Sound knowledge of general banking practices, advantageous
• Strong negotiation, leadership and influencing skills
• Qualified Lawyer with 7-10+ years PQE

So, why work with us?

1. Want big impact that matters? Here, you’ll know your work directly benefits the customers and communities we all serve.
2. Want to be more than just a number? Join a team that truly values you – and that gets more and more diverse every day.
3. Want career opportunity AND flexibility? Achieve both here, where we know that balance and progression go hand in hand.

You’ll also get access to a great range of benefits, including:

• Hybrid work? Flexible hours? A compressed work week? Our flexible work options are designed to suit your life.
• Health and wellbeing support, including discounted gym memberships, private health insurance options, and our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for you and your immediate family members.

We're making better, bigger. And we'll get there with you.

Still in two minds? 

Research suggests 60% of women and underrepresented groups might stop here, even after getting as far as drafting an application. We believe that diversity makes every team stronger, so even if you don’t tick every box we still want to see your application!

We believe a diverse workforce supported by an inclusive culture is central to our success, and we actively encourage applications from those who bring diversity of thought to our business. We support candidate requests for adjustment to accommodate an illness, injury or disability to equitably participate in the selection process.

Applications close: Sunday, 12th January 2025
Position Description:  Senior Legal Specialist Community Banking PD.docx

We are committed to responding to all candidates, regardless of the outcome of your application.

Please note shortlisting and interviews may take place prior to the advertised close date, so don't delay: apply now!