Employment OS for your Business

Legal Counsel

MDKL Legal • South Brisbane, Queensland 4101, Australia • Full-time
AI Job Summary
  • Approximately 4–8 years' post-qualification experience (PQE) in commercial law.
  • Strong commercial and contracting background in private practice and/or in-house.
  • Bachelor of Laws and a current Australian practising certificate (Queensland preferred).

Role Type

Permanent • Full-time • Associate

Description

We’re on the lookout for a Legal Counsel to join our in-house legal team and support the business across a broad range of commercial, franchise, property, governance and compliance matters.

As a trusted business partner, you’ll work with stakeholders across operations, franchising, property, construction, marketing, people & culture and executive leadership, providing practical legal advice that helps drive commercial outcomes and manage risk.

This is a varied and rewarding role offering exposure to a diverse range of legal matters within a dynamic franchise business. If you’re looking to build on your commercial legal experience while working closely with the business, this could be your next move.

Who are we?

Minor DKL Food Group is a leading Australian retail food franchisor and the Australian subsidiary of Thai-listed Minor International PCL. Home to iconic brands including The Coffee Club and Veneziano Coffee, our network spans more than 400 stores across 11 countries and employs over 5,000 people.

What is the role?

This is an exciting opportunity for a commercially minded lawyer to make a meaningful impact across the business. You’ll work on a broad range of commercial, franchising, property, governance and compliance matters while partnering with stakeholders to provide practical legal solutions and support business objectives.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Providing practical legal advice across franchising, leasing, construction, employment, marketing, privacy, consumer law, compliance and general commercial matters.
  • Drafting, reviewing and negotiating a range of commercial agreements and supporting strategic business initiatives.
  • Supporting franchise and property transactions, including franchise documentation, disclosure requirements and leasing matters.
  • Assisting with corporate governance, policy development and compliance initiatives.
  • Partnering with leaders across the business to identify, assess and manage legal and commercial risks.
  • Advising on compliance obligations, regulatory developments and legislative requirements relevant to the business.
  • Supporting compliance with the Franchising Code of Conduct and other applicable legislation.
  • Assisting with the management of disputes, litigation and claims, including liaising with external legal advisers where required.
  • Building strong relationships with stakeholders and providing commercially focused legal support across the organisation.

Who are we looking for?

We’re looking for a commercially astute lawyer who enjoys working closely with stakeholders and providing practical, solutions-focused advice.

This role would suit a lawyer with a solid commercial and contracting background who is looking to broaden their experience in an in-house environment. While experience in franchising or leasing is advantageous, it is not essential.

You will have:

  • Approximately 4-8 years’ post-qualification experience (PQE).
  • A strong commercial and contracting background gained in private practice and/or an in-house environment.
  • Excellent drafting, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
  • The ability to provide pragmatic, business-focused legal advice.
  • Strong communication skills and the confidence to engage with stakeholders across all levels of the organisation.
  • An interest in governance, compliance, and risk management.
  • The ability to manage multiple matters and competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Bachelor of Laws and a current Australian practising certificate (Queensland preferred).
  • Experience in franchising and/or leasing will be highly regarded but is not essential.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving and relationship-building skills.
  • A proactive and adaptable approach, with a willingness to learn and contribute across a broad range of legal matters.

Bonus points if you love food, coffee and the hospitality industry!

Why should you come work for us?

We’re proud of our collaborative, high-energy workplace where expertise is valued, ideas are welcomed and people genuinely support one another.

You’ll enjoy:

  • Working from our modern South Bank office, close to public transport and great local amenities.
  • A collaborative and supportive team environment.
  • Broad exposure to commercial, franchise, property, governance and compliance matters within a leading franchise organisation.
  • Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
  • Employee benefits including employer-funded paid parental leave, purchased annual leave and subsidised training and development.
  • Barista-quality coffee every day.

How do I apply?

If you’re ready to bring your skills to our team, we’d love to hear from you. To apply, please submit your CV and Cover Letter addressing your suitability for the role.

Hit the Apply Now button!

If you’re successful in the initial screening, we’ll be in touch to discuss the role further.

Company Overview

At Minor DKL Food Group, we combine global operational excellence with a passion for innovation and community. Whether you’re interested in franchised restaurant operations or the creative, purpose-driven world of specialty coffee, we offer diverse roles that empower you to grow and make a positive impact. If you want to further your hospitality career at The Coffee Club—or explore the sustainable, artisanal realm of specialty coffee with Nomad Coffee Group, our proudly B Corp certified specialty coffee arm—there’s a place for you here. Discover a career where every cup, every service, and every experience contributes to our shared success. Join us and be part of a team that’s driving change in the world of coffee and hospitality.