In-House Legal Counsel

About The Swatch Group

Swatch Group is the world's number one manufacturer of finished watches. With its 16 watch brands, the Group is present in all price segments, and is also active in the manufacture and sale of jewelry, watch movements and components. Its production companies supply movements and components to third-party watchmakers in Switzerland and around the world. Swatch Group is a key player in the manufacture and sale of electronic systems used in watchmaking and other industries. It is also a leader in the field of sports event timing.

The Australian subsidiary of Swatch Group unites the following watch brands under its roof: Breguet, Blancpain, Glashütte Original, OMEGA, Longines, Rado, Tissot, Mido, Hamilton, Swatch and Flik Flak.

The Role

With dual reporting lines across Australia and Switzerland, the In-House Legal Counsel provides expert legal advice to support Swatch Group Australia’s operational activities and strategic objectives. The role is a sole legal counsel position and requires strong risk assessment capability to evaluate the likelihood, frequency and potential impact of legal issues, ensuring the organisation’s interests are effectively protected.

Working closely with internal brands and cross-functional teams, the position advises on compliance and a broad range of legal matters, while drafting and negotiating commercially sound agreements. The position prioritises maximising Swatch Group Australia’s legal rights, minimising risk, and enabling effective and compliant business operations.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide legal support to stakeholders across key business functions (including Retail, Wholesale, E-Commerce, Marketing, Human Resources, Finance, Customer Service, Customer Care, Logistics and Procurement)
  • Advise Swatch Group Australia senior management and Group Legal on legal risks and strategic business matters
  • Ensure compliance with corporate governance and applicable regulatory requirements
  • Monitor regulatory changes and support risk mitigation strategies
  • Draft, review and negotiate a broad range of commercial agreements, including marketing, property, leasing and distribution
  • Develop and maintain contract templates, frameworks and legal processes
  • Support HR on employment law matters and workplace issues
  • Manage disputes, regulatory enquiries and legal proceedings
  • Deliver legal training and practical guidance to employees across the organisation
  • Manage external law firms as required, including engagement, performance and cost control

Skills and Experience

  • Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or Juris Doctor (JD) with admission to practice in Australia (Victoria is highly preferable)
  • 5+ years’ experience (with a commercial focus, previous in-house experience desirable)
  • Experience with review, drafting and negotiation of commercial contracts
  • Experience with employment laws and human resource matters
  • Experience with retail or FMCG is highly regarded (including regulations affecting retail, wholesale and e-commerce operations and dealing with regulators and escalations)
  • Sound understanding and knowledge of Australian commercial and corporate law
  • Strong stakeholder management skills
  • Ability to proactively anticipate legal issues or risks and communicate complex matters simply
  • Ability to work independently and prioritise and work well under pressure
  • Strong business and financial acumen
  • Excellent organisational and time management skills

Benefits

  • Collaborative and supportive culture
  • Contemporary office space with complimentary on-site car park
  • Generous employee discount across all Swatch Group brands
  • Novated leasing opportunities for electric vehicles
  • Annual professional learning & development program
  • Comprehensive income protection insurance
  • Access to Employee Assistance Program