In-House Legal Counsel - Franchising & CommercialHybrid

The In-House Legal Counsel is a key member of the Commercial team, responsible for legal execution and delivering timely, commercial, and compliant legal advice across all aspects of our franchised operations. With continued growth ahead, both locally and internationally, now is the perfect time to join us on the journey.

At Schnitz, we serve real food that makes people feel happy. From our restaurants to our support office, we live and breathe our values of kindness, energy, trust, making a difference, being extraordinary, and being authentic. Service is at the core of everything we do — and we work hard every day to put our Franchise Partners, our team, and our guests first.

The In-House Legal Counsel is a key member of the Commercial team, responsible for legal execution and delivering timely, commercial, and compliant legal advice across all aspects of our franchised operations. The role supports business in executing commercial transactions with supporting documentation (with a focus on franchising, leasing and commercial), managing franchise relationships, ensuring compliance with the Franchising Code and navigating the legal complexities of a fast-paced national food chain. 

The Role Recipe

• Franchise Legal Management: Draft, review, and negotiate franchise agreements, disclosure documents, and legal paperwork for renewals, variations, and terminations.
• Commercial Legal Support: Provide legal advice on leasing, licensing, supplier, IP, and promotional agreements, ensuring commercial transactions are compliant and commercially sound.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure ongoing compliance with the Franchising Code of Conduct, Australian Consumer Law, Food Safety Standards, and related legislation.
• Dispute Resolution: Lead the resolution of franchisee disputes and complaints, partnering with internal stakeholders and external counsel to manage legal risk and preserve brand reputation.
• Store Lifecycle Support: Provide legal guidance during new store openings, transfers, and closures, including lease and license agreements and legal due diligence.
• Campaign & IP Oversight: Support marketing and food safety initiatives by reviewing campaign compliance, customer claims, and managing trade mark record-keeping.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with internal teams and external partners including regulators, landlords, and legal counsel, ensuring timely, practical, and risk-aware legal solutions.

Key Ingredients

• Qualified lawyer with a current Australian practising certificate and 3+ years' post-admission experience in franchising and commercial law.
• Proven experience drafting franchise agreements, negotiating leases, and managing commercial contracts.
• Strong understanding of the Franchising Code of Conduct, Australian Consumer Law, and relevant food and retail regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced, evolving environment with a proactive and ethical approach.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills with a commercial mindset.
• High attention to detail, organisational efficiency, and strong problem-solving skills.
• Collaborative team player who is adaptable, solutions-focused, and trusted by stakeholders across the business.

Our Commitment to You

• Work as part of a purpose-led Leadership Team in a dynamic, scaling business
• Enjoy flexible work arrangements and a fantastic work culture built on values and purpose
• Access a modern, open office in a great location
• Take part in team lunches, anniversary celebrations, annual conferences, and enjoy staff discounts
• Make a real impact and help shape the future of Schnitz

Ready to Lead with Purpose and Discipline?

 Apply now to join the Schnitz family and help us grow with heart, hustle, and harmony

Schnitz is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace environment. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds - not just because it is the right thing to do, but because it makes our organisation stronger. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other people of colour, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ people and those with a disability.