Legal, Policy and Contracts Manager

About ArborMeta

At ArborMeta, our mission is to elevate forest science through cutting-edge technology and advance initiatives that prioritize climate and biodiversity. Rooted in a not-for-profit research background, we are dedicated to deepening our understanding and appreciation of the world’s forests by developing innovative technologies that meet the challenges of the 21st century. Join us in creating real-world solutions for urgent environmental issues.

About the role

The Legal, Policy and Contracts Manager will play a pivotal executive role in driving the legal strategy of the business while navigating the intersection of policy, innovation, and commercial delivery. This role will involve leading the development and negotiation of contracts, advising on legal and intellectual property (IP) matters, and staying ahead of Australian policymaking - especially as it relates to environmental markets, AI use, and climate regulation.

A true policy wonk, you’ll be both a strategic thinker and a pragmatic problem solver, thriving in a rapidly evolving market where many frameworks are still being written. As a key member of our team, you will help shape pioneering methodologies that drive real impact and commercial opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Legal Strategy & Guidance: Develop and guide the legal strategy in alignment with business growth and market objectives.
• Contracts & Commercials: Draft, review, and negotiate commercial, IP, service, and partnership agreements, ensuring alignment with business goals and compliance standards.
• Policy Interpretation & Engagement: Track and interpret relevant Australian environmental policy, carbon markets, and nature repair legislation, providing insight into business opportunities and risks.
• IP Development & Strategy: Advise on the protection, management, and commercialisation of company intellectual property, including proprietary methodologies and tech interfaces.
• AI and Data Legal Guidance: Provide legal insights into our use of AI and data-gathering technologies, including managing risk and designing solutions within an uncertain regulatory framework.
• Pioneering Market Frameworks: Support the creation and standardisation of legal and ethical methodologies within an emerging and undefined market.
• External Relations: Liaise with policymakers, industry bodies, and commercial businesses to help steer the development of sector standards and influence future policy.
• Internal Stakeholder Support: Collaborate closely with leadership, operations and development teams to align legal considerations with business strategy.

About You

• A self-described policy wonk who enjoys diving into complex regulation and shaping emerging frameworks
• Tertiary degree in Law or a related field (minimum requirement)
• Demonstrated experience in commercial law, ideally within environment, tech, or regulatory sectors
• Strong understanding of Australian environmental regulation and/or carbon/nature-based markets
• Experience managing legal matters relating to intellectual property, data, or technology
• Commercial acumen with the ability to create legal structures that support growth in uncertain or early-stage markets
• Experience advising companies navigating pioneering or underregulated industry areas is highly desirable
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally and influence at executive levels
• Pragmatic, proactive, and solutions-focused mindset
• Forward-thinking and comfortable working within undefined systems and rapidly evolving markets

Why Work With Us

• Shape the future of environmental markets – Influence the legal, policy and ethical frameworks of a rapidly emerging sector at the forefront of climate and biodiversity innovation.
• Work with cutting-edge science and technology – Be part of a team developing world-leading forest analytics, AI systems and IP that drive real-world environmental impact.
• Lead with purpose in a mission-driven organisation – Join a values-led company, where your expertise directly contributes to meaningful climate action and long-term ecological outcomes.