Sr Manager, Legal Counsel (Property)

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Date: 19 May 2026

Location: THORNLEIGH, NSW, AU, 2120

Company: McDonald's Corporation

McDonald’s Australia is the largest quick service restaurant operation in the country. Fondly known as “Macca's”, we have been a household name in Australia for over 50 years, we believe that our customers are the heart and soul of everything we do and make it our mission to make every moment count! As an employer of choice winner time and time again, working with us means taking pride and having fun along the way; while growing and developing your career in a dynamic and supportive environment.

Could you be our next Senior Manager, Legal Counsel (Property)?

Are you ready to help shape the future of Australia’s most iconic restaurant brand? Can you see yourself driving legal strategy that enables rapid restaurant growth nationwide? Our national in-house legal team are on the lookout for a Senior Manager, Legal Counsel (Property) who will provide strategic, commercially focused property legal advice that empowers our National Development Group to deliver sustainable restaurant growth and effective asset management, while proactively managing legal risk throughout the development lifecycle. Ready to leave billable hours behind in private practice, or take your in-house career to the leading QSR brand? Apply now to join a brand that’s shaping the future of food and property.

 

What you can expect on a day-to-day basis:

  • Acting as the senior property legal advisor to the National Development Group across all states and territories
  • Providing end‑to‑end legal support across development, planning, construction, design, portfolio and asset management
  • Leading and advising on freehold and leasehold acquisitions, agreements for lease, development agreements and complex leasing arrangements
  • Supporting the business on construction contracts and disputes, balancing legal risk with commercial outcomes
  • Serving as a senior escalation point on complex property matters
  • Overseeing FIRB reporting and compliance obligations
  • Driving continuous improvement across legal processes, templates and governance
  • Partnering closely with senior stakeholders to enable speed to market and quality decision‑making
  • Leading, coaching and developing Legal Counsel within the property practice
  • Fosteing a collaborative, high‑performing team culture
  • Contributing to broader Legal team initiatives, knowledge sharing and best practice
  • Supporting the adoption of new ways of working and legal technology to improve efficiency and consistency

Your keys to success:

  • 10+ years’ post‑qualification experience practising property law
  • Experience from a top‑tier or mid‑tier law firm (in‑house experience highly regarded)
  • Strong experience managing complex property portfolios with multiple stakeholders
  • A pragmatic, commercially minded approach to managing risk
  • Proven ability to operate autonomously with sound judgement
  • Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills at senior levels
  • Demonstrated experience mentoring and coaching junior lawyers
  • Confidence thriving in a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment

Relish in the Macca's difference when you join the Golden Arches:

  • Competitive Remuneration Package. We offer a total reward package of base salary, health care, long-term incentive share program and a target incentive bonus plan.
  • 5 Weeks of Annual Leave. Switch off and recharge or explore your passions outside of work with an additional week of annual leave each calendar year.
  • Flexible Work Environment. Our teams have embraced a hybrid working model, balancing working remotely and connecting in the office to support our people and how they best add value.
  • Paid Parental Leave. We proudly support growing families with paid parental leave top-up options, helping you take the time you need while maintaining financial stability.
  • Birthday & Volunteer Leave. Enjoy a day-off during your birthday month and 3 days annually to volunteer for a registered charity you are passionate about.
  • Modern Office with Sustainable Amenities. Newly revamped office located in Thornleigh featuring the latest technology and electric car chargers to support eco-friendly commuting.
  • Ongoing Professional Development.  We are committed to developing our people by investing in leadership programs and free access to LinkedIn Learning.
  • Macca’s Staff Discount & Retail Discounts. Enjoy discounted Macca’s at any restaurant across Australia and access to hundreds of retail discounts.
  • Access To Our 24/7 Wellbeing Partner (Sonder) For You & Your Immediate Family. Using the Sonder app, access free and confidential safety, medical and mental health support via chat or phone with accredited professionals.
  • A Fun & Vibrant Culture. Immerse yourself in local and Macca’s only events and experiences from day one of working with us.

At Macca’s, our doors are open to everyone, and we live by our Golden Rule: treating everyone with dignity, fairness and respect, always. We’re committed to building a safe, inclusive and welcoming workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered - it’s our people who make us Macca’s.

 

As an equal opportunity employer, we strongly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences. If you have a disability, illness or injury and need adjustments during the recruitment process, we’re here to help, just reach out to start the conversation.