Managing Principal Solicitor, Prosecutions & Inquiries

Reporting to the Deputy General Counsel, Litigation, the Managing Principal Solicitor Prosecutions & Inquiries will form part of the senior management team within the Legal and Governance Branch. The Managing Principal Solicitor will be responsible for conducting regulatory prosecutions on behalf of the Department of Health, as well as responding to inquiries, Royal Commissions and engaging with the Coroners Court of Victoria on coronial matters. This is a leadership and people management-focussed role, with an emphasis on building the capability of the Victorian Public Service.

This role sits within the Litigation unit, which is responsible for conducting and responding to litigation on behalf of the Department of Health. This includes claims for compensation, prosecution of regulatory offences and historical institutional abuse claims taking place across a range of courts and tribunals and engaging a variety of subject matter across the Health portfolios. The Litigation team therefore plays a key strategic role within the Department of Health and the Victorian State Government more broadly.

At the Victorian Department of Health we want a future where Victorians are the healthiest people in the world. A Victoria where our children and people thrive, our workplaces are productive and safe, and our communities are more connected. We see it as our job to support Victorians to stay healthy and safe. And to deliver a world-class healthcare system that ensures every single Victorian can access safe, quality care that leads to better health outcomes for all.

About You

• Participates in strategic planning and contributes to strategic decision making process.
• Accountable for achievement of established corporate objectives including the formulation and implementation of local business plans.
• Initiates and manages negotiations with peers (internal and external to work unit) to gain commitment to projects, and delivery of activities to meet timelines.
• Provides and receives highly complex, contentious or sensitive information where high levels of negotiation, communication and interpersonal skills are required.
• Uses knowledge of structures, processes and culture of government, the sector and the Department to develop policies and new program or project initiatives.
• Draft and develop material including the preparation of Cabinet and Cabinet related material, Ministerial and Secretary briefings and meeting papers, agendas, minutes and reports.

Qualifications / Specialist Expertise

• The successful candidate must hold (or be eligible to hold) a current practising certificate under the Legal Profession Uniform Law.
• A minimum 7 years post admission experience is desirable.
• A strong background in government law, Royal Commissions and/or public, regulatory investigations, dispute resolution and litigation and the provision of legal advice to government would be desirable.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to perform meaningful work, making direct contributions toward enabling Victorians to be the healthiest people in the world.
• A wide range of growth and development opportunities within the department and wider Victorian Public Service.
• A strong commitment to work-life balance, including a diverse array of flexible working arrangements.