Speech Writer

The Law Society of New South Wales works with and for the NSW legal profession. We're not all lawyers, but we work together to support the legal profession and ensure a just society for all.

We are currently looking for a Speech Writer to support our President, CEO and Law Society representatives.

About us

The Law Society of New South Wales is the professional association representing the solicitors of New South Wales. The Society has two primary areas of responsibility, namely its statutory obligations and its representative functions under its Memorandum of Association. It acts as both "licensing and regulating authority" and "as an association" for its members representing their interests. The Society is simultaneously responsible for maintaining professional standards of conduct and hearing and investigating complaints against solicitors.

About the role

Reporting into, and working alongside, the Senior Speech Writer, you will be responsible for the development of high-quality speeches for the President, CEO, and Law Society officeholders and representatives at events, including ceremonial Court sittings, keynote addresses, local, national and internal legal events and educational events hosted by the Law Society. You will be responsible for the associated complex and sensitive research of speeches, as well as providing expert advice on announcements and events.

This role requires liaison with all levels of internal and external organisations, including the judiciary, members of parliament, and senior legal profession figures.

What you'll be doing

• Ensure the development of high-quality speeches by undertaking complex, time-constrained, and at times politically sensitive topic research and analysis.
• Maintain an astute awareness of issues across the organisation to assist in the development of speeches.
• Clarify information provided and ensure speeches for functions, announcements and events are prepared in the presenters’ personal style and are relevant to the intended audience.
• Ensure timely access to required information, through the development of strategic working relationships, systems and procedures to facilitate proactive communication, briefings and information flow between the respective stakeholder groups.
• Research, write, proof and edit copy in a variety of styles for electronic and print documents, including speeches for ceremonial court sittings.
• Attend functions, announcements, and events with the President and/or CEO as required, and ensure appropriate support and coordination for the delivery of speeches.
• Research and write copy for Law Society publications as required, including Monday Briefs, op-eds and content for the Law Society Journal.
• Provide input into strategies aimed at influencing public opinion on public policy issues through media and public relations campaigns, in consultation with the Senior Speech Writer, Content and Communications Manager, Director, Media and Public Relations and Director, Policy and Practice.
• Undertake research on specific issues to ensure information is accurate and current.
• Some out of hours work and availability is required.

About you

• Completion of a degree in an appropriate field or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education / training.
• Demonstrated experience in researching, analysing and coordinating information, and preparing and/or drafting relevant and timely speeches, media briefings and written reports.
• Experience in interviewing is desirable.
• High level of computer literacy using the Microsoft Office suite of products and website publication.
• Develop effective working relationships and strategic networks.
• Be politically astute and work independently under broad direction, to apply judgement, diplomacy and initiative.
• Maintain a high level of confidentiality at all times.
• Deliver clear and accurate copy, with exceptional attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills, ability to prioritise tasks, and work to deadlines.
• Demonstrated commitment to high-quality communications.
• Demonstrated initiative and creativity.
• Ability to use information, knowledge and experience to analyse and form judgements.
• Ability to competently and confidently liaise with people from all walks of life in a mutually respectful interchange.

To apply

The Law Society of New South Wales is committed to building and maintaining a respectful and inclusive workplace, appointing the best person for the role and supporting diversity.

Applications should contain a CV and cover letter that outlines your key experience and motivations for this role.