Executive Search

Legal executive search across Australia

JLegal is a specialist legal executive search firm. We find and appoint senior legal and governance leaders for law firms, ASX-listed companies, multinationals and the public sector.

Our strength lies in long-standing relationships and extensive professional networks across the legal market. These give us a unique ability to identify highly credentialed leaders, understand the intricacies of each industry and deliver strong outcomes for our clients.

Senior roles we recruit for

We have a strong track record of placing senior talent, including:

  • Equity Partners and Salaried Partners
  • Partners and teams for lateral moves and new offices
  • General Counsel and Chief Legal Officers
  • Head of Legal and Deputy General Counsel
  • Group Company Secretaries and Chief Governance Officers
  • Special Counsel and senior practice leaders

Our clients include prestigious ASX-listed organisations and top-tier law firms.

Why use legal executive search?

The best candidates for senior legal roles are rarely looking for a new job. Executive search lets you reach them discreetly, assess them properly and present your opportunity in the right way.

A structured search also protects your confidentiality, which matters when you are replacing a senior leader, building a new team or entering a new market.

How our legal executive search process works

  1. Detailed brief: we learn about the role, your team dynamics, intended business outcomes and succession planning.
  2. Market mapping: we map the market to identify every relevant candidate, not just those who are actively looking.
  3. Discreet approach: we approach candidates confidentially and present your opportunity.
  4. Assessment: we provide comprehensive assessments of each candidate’s experience, strengths and fit.
  5. Shortlist and interviews: we present a considered shortlist and manage the interview process.
  6. Offer and onboarding: we negotiate terms and support the candidate through resignation and into the role.

For senior Lawyers and General Counsel

If you are a Partner, General Counsel or senior legal leader considering your next move, we offer a confidential, long-term relationship. We will share market intelligence, introduce you only to opportunities you approve, and support you through negotiation and beyond.

More than recruitment

JLegal’s approach goes beyond identifying candidates. We aim to build enduring partnerships by understanding each industry, each client’s needs and each candidate’s goals, so that every appointment works for both sides.

Frequently asked questions

Is the search confidential?

Yes. We handle every search discreetly, for both clients and candidates.

Do you only recruit in Sydney?

No. We run executive searches across Australia, and for Partners and teams in international markets.

How long does an executive search take?

It depends on the role and market, but we agree a clear timeline with you at the start of every search.

Talk to a legal executive search specialist

Planning a senior appointment, or considering your own next move? Contact our team for a confidential conversation, or register with JLegal.