Special Counsel

Who are we?

Gilchrist Connell is a dynamic and forward-thinking insurance law firm with offices in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

At Gilchrist Connell, we believe that access to exceptional work and a fulfilling personal life go hand in hand.

For the sixth consecutive year, we've been recognised as an Australasian Lawyer 5-Star Employer of Choice, and we're proud to be certified as a Family Friendly Workplace and Great Place to Work. We are a WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality, and in 2025 we were recognised in the Best Law Firms list by Best Lawyers.

Are you looking to advance your career in a dynamic and inclusive environment? At Gilchrist Connell, we champion transparency, flexible working practices, and top-tier employee support programs. Here, your professional growth is nurtured, and your personal well-being is a priority. Join a team that values your contribution, fosters innovation, and strives for excellence. Be part of a vibrant culture where your career can truly thrive.

What we offer you?

Gilchrist Connell offers a wide range of benefits including:

• A culture built by real people committed to each other and their clients' success Our firm has a collegiate buzz and is growing in response to client demand.
• Access to an experienced team of lawyers at different levels who are dedicated to helping you learn and grow in your role and to provide support while you do so.
• Flexibility to manage your time. Be efficient, get your work done, and go enjoy your personal life.
• Responsibility for and meaning in your work.
• A truly diverse and inclusive workplace where all our people can flourish and fulfil their highest potential, for the benefit of our people, the firm, and our clients.
• Community mindset. We recognise our role as a corporate citizen and invest in a standalone pro bono practice and community response.
• Access to professional development opportunities with leading external providers.
• A competitive salary with discretionary incentives linked to firm performance.
• Group Salary Continuance (GSC) at the firm's cost.
• Market leading family friendly policies entitlements over and above government entitlements.
• Comprehensive wellbeing support services through our EAP Provider and Osara Health which is available to you and your family.
• Access to corporate discounts for over 400 retailers.

Why the role?

As a growing firm, we are looking for talented and ambitious professionals to join our team. With a dynamic and collaborative workplace culture, our firm offers excellent career opportunities and a supportive environment for professional development. Currently we are seeking a Special Counsel to support the work of our Sydney team. In this role you will be exposed to a variety of insurance matters with a focus on professional indemnity.

This role is for a Special Counsel looking to build on their experience as they progress and continue toward more senior roles within the practice.

Who are you?

• Around 8+ years' post admission experience in insurance matters.
• Strong knowledge and experience in litigation and insurance law, with exposure to professional indemnity claims involving both coverage and defence
• Ability to advise on policy and complex issues with a practical and client focused approach
• Ability to manage client expectations and run matters autonomously
• A clear and concise communication style
• A commercial approach and ability to articulate and negotiate effectively
• Enthusiasm for mentoring of lawyers and paralegals
• Strong interest in taking your career to the next level
• A team player who can collaborate on work

Contact

Candidates can request reasonable adjustments for any part of the recruitment process. If you need any specific adjustment, please contact our People team so we can work together to support you.

We encourage applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, including but not limited to First Nations, LGBTIQA+, persons with disabilities, as well as individuals of all ages, and cultures. We're a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace and celebrate the diversity of our people.

If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career and want to work for a firm that values high performance, innovation, growth, whilst having fun along the way, we would love to hear from you  Please talk to our Talent Acquisition Partner, Rachel Gerreyn on about joining Gilchrist Connell. Alternatively, hit the apply button to submit your CV and cover letter.

A quick note to agencies – we do not need support with this role at present. Thank you.