Special Counsel / Associate Director – Property (Contract Role) | Brisbane
Location: Brisbane
Contract Term:10 months (commencing 1 February 2026)
Join Our Dynamic Team at JHK Legal
Are you an experienced property lawyer looking for a senior leadership opportunity without the long-term commitment? JHK Legal has an exciting opening for a 10-month Special Counsel / Associate Director contract role, leading our Brisbane Property team from February 2026.
About Us
JHK Legal is a dynamic and innovative Australian law firm committed to providing approachable, expedient and economically transparent legal services to clients. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive workplace where every team member contributes to our success.
About the Role
This is a hands-on leadership role overseeing our Brisbane Property team while managing high-level client work. You’ll supervise and mentor lawyers, maintain client relationships, and ensure the team delivers exceptional outcomes.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supervising and mentoring the property team to drive performance and development
- Providing PEXA sign-off on settlements across NSW, QLD, VIC and WA
- Reviewing and settling advice prepared by solicitors
- Advising on commercial and retail leasing matters
- Handling QLD & NSW land and leasing development matters, including acquisitions, due diligence, titling, and preparing off-the-plan contracts
- Managing land title transactions including caveats, mortgages, easements, and land subdivisions
- Running commercial and residential conveyancing matters across multiple jurisdictions
- Reporting to the Board on billings and team performance
About You
- Bring at least 6 years’ PQE with a strong property and commercial background
- Have proven experience leading teams and mentoring junior lawyers
- Possess technical expertise in property law, settlements, conveyancing, and leasing
- Be commercially minded and client-focused
- Demonstrate resilience, initiative, and collaboration
Why Contractors Choose Us
- Attractive hourly/daily rate that reflects the short-term contract nature of the role
- Flexible work arrangements to suit your lifestyle and commitments (including reduced hours or a 4-day week) are available for the right candidate.
- High-level exposure to management reporting, leadership, and strategic input
- Opportunity to maintain outside interests alongside your contract work (where appropriate)
- Short-term commitment with long-term impact – lead a team, shape outcomes, and step away at contract completion
- Potential for long-term employment (depending on business requirements)
Who This Role Would Suit
- A senior lawyer seeking a short-term leadership role without committing to permanent partnership or director pathways
- A practitioner who values flexibility and autonomy while still contributing at a high level
- Lawyers returning to the workforce after time away who want a defined-term senior position
- Career contractors or consultants looking for challenging, high-impact work within a respected national firm
How to Apply
If this sounds like the right fit, please send your resume and cover letter to [email protected] with the subject line: Your Name – Brisbane Special Counsel/Associate Director.
Applications close: 10 October 2025
JHK Legal is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds.