Legal Counsel

About Us

BYD is a high-tech company devoted to technological innovations for a better life. As a leading battery-electric zero-emission (ZEV) manufacturer, BYD is dedicated to providing zero-emission energy solutions through a broad range of battery-electric, hybrid electric, and internal combustion (IC) passenger vehicles. We develop intelligent electric vehicles featuring sleek design and an innovative user experience.

About The Role

Based in BYD's Melbourne office in Mulgrave, this role will support BYD Australia during a period of rapid growth in the Australian EV market. Reporting to the APAS Legal Manager, you will support daily operations and multiple commercial issues related to product sales, delivery, and service. As part of the BYD APAS Legal team, you will also support BYD HQ and our regional team in various types of disputes and litigation.

Your Duties Will Include

• Commercial & Fleet Support: Advise on a wide variety of legal issues in sales, delivery, and service. This includes drafting and negotiating Master Supply Agreements (MSAs) for corporate and government fleet transitions, and managing high-volume vendor, logistics, and leasing arrangements.
• Employment & Workplace Relations: Provide expert advice on Australian employment law practices, including managing employee relations and internal HR legal issues. This includes representing the company at the Fair Work Commission (FWC) or relevant tribunals as necessary.
• Generalist Legal Support (WHS & Insurance): Provide generalist legal advice regarding Work Health and Safety (WHS) obligations and insurance-related matters to ensure organizational risk is mitigated across all business units.
• Regulatory & Compliance: Assist BYD HQ and the APAS legal team in managing legal compliance and the evolving regulatory landscape. This involves monitoring Australian Design Rules (ADRs), vehicle safety recalls, and ensuring the business meets carbon emission targets under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES).
• Dealer & Franchising Management: Implement local legal management systems and assist in the maintenance of Dealer and Aftersales Agreements in compliance with the Automotive Franchising Code of Conduct.
• Marketing & Consumer Law: Review national marketing campaigns and public relations materials to ensure compliance with the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, specifically regarding "Greenwashing" and EV performance claims.
• Dispute Resolution: Manage high-level consumer disputes and litigation in Australia, including Commercial and Product Liability matters, providing guidance on Australian Consumer Law (ACL) warranties.
• Business Partnership: Act as a strategic partner to the business teams such as Sales, Marketing and Aftersales teams to support the achievement of organization goals with commercially practical outcomes.

Key Requirements

• Qualifications: Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or Juris Doctor (JD). Must be admitted to practice in an Australian State or Territory with a current practising certificate.
• Experience: Around 2-3 years of PQE working with a top-tier law firm or in an in-house position. Specific experience in employment law, tribunal representations, or WHS within the automotive/manufacturing sectors is highly regarded.
• Language & Communication: Proficient in English and Mandarin. Excellent oral and written communication skills are essential.
• Technical Knowledge: Solid working knowledge of Australian laws regarding daily business, employment practices, and the automotive industry.
• Soft Skills: Strong capability to work independently and cross-functionally in a fast-paced, 5-day onsite environment.

Join the Team

BYD Australia is under rapid expansion with plenty of opportunities to arise. If you are ready to be challenged and work together with industry leaders in a vibrant team, please click on Apply and submit your updated resume.