1 April 2022

According to NZ Lawyer, the role of in-house lawyers has significantly changed over the past few years:

“Once relegated to managing strictly legal issues, in-house counsel are today considered some of the most valuable advisors within an organisation as their duties have expanded into assisting businesses with everything from legal to planning.”

Kara has been with MIT as their legal counsel since 2014 before taking on the dual role with Unitec role 2021.

“The NZ Lawyer In-house Leaders list showcases legal professionals with a solid track record of career achievement.  I am honoured to have received this industry recognition,” Kara says.

“The last year has been really challenging, with not only taking on the legal function at Unitec but also operating under Covid restrictions while our sector is facing major upheaval with the upcoming merger as Te Pūkenga. Having said that, it is exciting to be a part of a significant reform in New Zealand’s vocational education system and I am looking forward to the changes ahead.”

Kara’s acknowledgement in the Inhouse Leaders list recognises the high calibre of her work and value she brings to the education sector, says Michelle Teirney, DCE-Operations.

"Kara has a unique ability to translate complex matters into solution focussed, plain language. She is highly valued and we are fortunate to have her guidance and talents."

Of the list, 18 were Auckland-based lawyers, three from Wellington, one from Otago and one from Tauranga.