Lead Counsel

Wherever you are in the amazing world of Disney, you are contributing to the stories of our iconic brands, recognised by audiences everywhere for entertainment, information and inspiration. Innovation, imagination and inclusion are at the core of Disney, defining the experience that we deliver as well as providing the foundation of our success. The scope of our business, combined with global growth and collaboration result in an inclusive employee experience characterised by continuous learning, development and achievement.

As the Lead Counsel supporting the key Disney business areas of Disney+ and Content Sales & Distribution in Australia and NZ, the role is principally responsible for providing expert, practical, and commercial legal advice to support those business units in achieving their strategic and operational goals.

Key responsibilities:

• Disney+ streaming service – advise and negotiate all distribution, partnership and promotional deals for Disney+ in Australia & NZ; advise on Australian & NZ legal considerations and compliance matters for Disney+ platform and product changes and features; advise on legal and compliance matters relating to the Disney+ Perks loyalty programme, including partnerships with third-party sponsors; ensure compliance with Australian and NZ consumer laws for all aspects of the marketing and distribution of Disney+; advise on rules relating to accessibility requirements, advertising compliance (e.g. AANA Codes, Online Content Service Provider Rules) and other relevant local legal and regulatory compliance matters; supervise legal clearance and compliance work for ANZ marketing materials for Disney+ including brand, performance and lifecycle marketing.
• Content Sales & Distribution – supervise the drafting and negotiation of key content licence agreements with free TV and subscription TV broadcasters, BVOD, VOD and sell-through digital service providers for the distribution of Disney’s and its affiliates’ extensive library of motion pictures and television programming.
• ESPN Channel distribution & rights acquisition – advise and negotiate affiliate channel distribution deals for the ESPN and ESPN2 channels in Australian & NZ, and deals for the acquisition of local rights , including ensuring compliance with all laws, regulations and policies.
• Management responsibilities – manage one direct report and may act as a guide for other Disney lawyers.  The Lead Counsel role will be responsible for the day-to-day management and supervision of an Attorney level lawyer in the ANZ Legal team who will also support the Disney+ and Content Sales & Distribution business areas, including delegating relevant work and being responsible for appropriate supervision and review; and providing coaching, mentoring, setting objectives and ongoing performance review and development.
• Policies – drive the formulation, drafting and implementation of Disney legal and regulatory policies, best practice guidelines and training for the ANZ Disney+ and Content Sales business teams to address compliance or regulatory needs; as required, support Disney’s Global Public Policy and Government Affairs team in formulating policy positions and consultation submissions relating to the Australian and NZ operation of Disney+.
• Advise the wider local Disney business on relevant areas of law and policy relating to Disney’s Australian and NZ operations including intellectual property, content classification, broadcast regulations / standards & practices, consumer law, advertising, IT, brand management and marketing.
• Liaise with members of Disney’s international Legal Departments as required, including the Disney Streaming Services US legal team, and Disney+ international distribution teams, to advise on Australian & NZ law or regulations, and to assist in maintenance of best practices and compliance with Disney Policies.

Ideal experience:

• Significant experience (minimum 15+ years) as a qualified lawyer with both top-tier firm private practice experience, as well as experience in an in-house legal department, focused on the practice of IP, commercial and media and entertainment law.
• Admitted to practice law in any State or Territory of Australia.
• Must hold current Australian State or Territory practising certificate
• Proven experience of advising and/or working in the Australian or comparable international media and entertainment industry is essential, including specifically legal experience with digital product management and related marketing, and content distribution and monetisation.
• Experience in managing, supervising and mentoring junior lawyers / team members.

Additional Information:

This is unique opportunity to join the talented team that develops and delivers unparalleled entertainment across Australia and New Zealand so if this role captures your imagination then apply now!

The Walt Disney Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to be a diverse and inclusive workforce that is representative of our audiences, and where all can thrive and belong. We are committed to building a team that includes and respects a variety of voices, identities, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.

The Walt Disney Company can provide individual accessibility support that may be needed during your interview process. Please let us know of accommodations that may assist in helping you feel welcome by emailing wdi.careers.au@disney.com.