Thinking About a Return to Law – But Not to the Billable Hour?

Why the Programme Director Legal Education New Zealand Role Could Be Your Ideal Next Chapter

Let’s be honest, law is a fantastic foundation, but not everyone wants to spend their entire career in traditional legal practice. Maybe you’ve stepped out into business leadership, learning and development, or people management. You’ve broadened your skill set, built confidence beyond the courtroom, and made an impact in different ways.

And now? You’re wondering if there’s a role that brings all of that together — one where you can reconnect with the legal profession, without losing the career growth and flexibility you’ve gained.

Spoiler: There is.

We’re working exclusively with the College of Law New Zealand to find a Programme Director Professional Legal Studies (PLSC) — a senior leadership role for someone who still values their legal background, but also brings experience from the broader business world.

So, what’s the role?

The College of Law is the leading provider of pre-admission training for aspiring lawyers in Aotearoa. As Programme Director, you’ll lead the Professional Legal Studies Course (Profs) — the course many of New Zealand’s lawyers completed before being admitted to the bar.

You’ll manage a team of five direct reports and up to 30 instructional contractors who deliver courses across the country. But this is far more than academic administration. You’ll:

Guide the direction of legal education in New Zealand

Support the development and performance of an expert teaching team

Collaborate with law firms, universities, and regulators

Lead innovation in how legal education is delivered — including exploring the use of emerging technologies to better engage and prepare students

You’ll also teach occasionally (around 10% of your time), keeping your connection to learners and the programme itself.

Who’s it for?

This role could be the perfect fit if you:

Have an LLB and 4+ years’ post-admission legal experience

Have stepped into leadership, coaching, legal operations or business roles

Enjoy mentoring others and seeing people grow

Have strategic thinking skills and a knack for improving how things run

Still want to use your legal background — just in a new and meaningful way

This full-time, Auckland-based position comes with a hybrid work model (three days in-office, two from home) and a strong focus on work-life balance.

Why the College of Law?

The College is a trusted and respected name in legal education — not just in New Zealand, but across Australia, the UK, and Asia too. It’s known for practical, industry-relevant legal training that sets graduates up for success.

But more than that, it’s a workplace where people stay. Many of the College’s leaders have worked in law, education, and business — and love the chance to blend all three into one purposeful role.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Flexible hybrid working
• $1,200 annual wellbeing allowance
• Paid “College Days” off between Christmas and New Year
• Support for postgraduate study
• Phone and IT allowances for working from home
• EAP access, flu jab reimbursement, and on-site parking (as needed)

The bottom line?

You’ve worked hard to build your career — and now you’re looking for something that uses all of that experience. If you’re ready to lead with purpose, influence the next generation of Kiwi lawyers, and bring fresh thinking to legal education — this is your moment.

📞 Contact Gary Bloxham at Tyler Wren on 09 974 9072 for a confidential conversation

📩 Or apply online at tylerwren.co.nz

We’re proud to be exclusively managing this appointment on behalf of the College of Law New Zealand.

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