Legal and Business Affairs Executive
Auckland-based | Full-time
Love law, film and good decision-making?
We’re looking for a sharp, collaborative Legal and Business Affairs Executive to join the New Zealand Film Commission and help us back great screen stories – while balancing opportunity, risk and public accountability.
The role
As Legal and Business Affairs Executive, you’ll play a key role in helping NZFC make sound, well‑balanced decisions as a government funding entity. You’ll work closely with filmmakers, producers, external counsel, and colleagues across the organisation.
Your work will span the full lifecycle of screen projects – from development and finance through to delivery and post‑close matters – as well as wider organisational legal and policy support.
What you’ll be doing
Among other things, you’ll:
- Prepare, review and negotiate production finance and related documentation for feature films
- Support NZFC through film closings, working closely with external legal counsel
- Provide clear, practical legal advice across commercial, intellectual property and public law matters
- Support decision-making for screen funding, rebates and official co-productions
- Draft Board papers and present at Board meetings when required
- Help colleagues understand and meet their legal obligations (including OIA, Privacy and public records)
- Contribute to improving NZFC’s policies, templates, Terms of Trade and ways of working
- Engage respectfully and effectively with filmmakers, industry partners and colleagues
- Contribute to NZFC strategies, including Te Rautaki Māori, diversity and inclusion, and sustainability goals
About you
You’re a confident legal professional who enjoys working collaboratively and pragmatically in a busy, purpose‑driven environment. You’re comfortable dealing with complexity, but you also know how to explain things clearly and calmly.
You’ll bring:
- An LLB and admission as a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand (with eligibility for a practising certificate)
- At least 5 years’ post‑qualification experience, ideally in media, production or commercial law
- Strong technical legal skills and sound judgement
- An interest in (or experience with) public law and government processes
- The ability to build trust and credibility with a wide range of stakeholders
- Curiosity, resilience and a continuous‑improvement mindset
- A genuine commitment to working inclusively and in partnership with Māori, and a willingness to grow your understanding of Te Ao Māori
Why join us?
- Work on New Zealand films from the inside
- Be part of a supportive, values‑led organisation
- Enjoy varied, meaningful legal work with real cultural impact
- Collaborate with passionate, smart people who care deeply about what they do
If you’re looking for a role where law meets creativity, public purpose and great people, we’d love to hear from you.
To apply please send your CV and cover letter expressing why you would be a great fit for this role to recruitment@nzfilm.co.nz. Applications close 29 May 2026.