How is QLS Structured?

Council & Executive Committee

QLS is governed by an elected Council of members, namely a barrister or practitioner appointed by the Attorney-General and members of the Society elected or appointed in accordance with the Queensland Law Society Rules.

Council provides the policy directions for QLS. Elections for are held in October of every second year, with all full QLS members eligible to vote.

The composition of the Executive Committee is to consist of the President; the Deputy President, if any; the Vice President; the Immediate Past President as an ex officio member, at that individual's discretion; and two elected Councillors. The role of the Executive Committee is to assist Council with administration of QLS and implementation of Council's directions.

President

The role of the President is to lead the Council and to ensure it focuses on its key role of setting the corporate direction and goals and monitoring the performance of the Society.

The President's responsibilities include setting the agenda and chairing Council and Executive Committee meetings and representing or speaking on behalf of QLS in discussions or negotiations with key stakeholders (such as the media, government, and the judiciary). Consultation and communication with members to ensure their views are heard and understood in Council is a key responsibility of the President - a responsibility shared with all Council members.

The President works closely with the Chief Executive Officer to ensure the effective corporate governance of QLS. This includes facilitating the contribution of Council members to particular projects and activities.

The President is elected for a term of one year, with the Deputy President succeeding to the office of President at the beginning of the second term.

The current President (2010) is Peter Eardley.

Chief Executive Officer

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is accountable to Council for the overall performance of QLS. Whilst the Council sets the strategic agenda through determining its overall goals, priorities, and policies, the CEO manages the organisation to ensure that resources are focused on delivering the services agreed by Council in the Society's Strategic Plan.

The CEO also plays a key role in Council's development of QLS's strategic direction by identifying and analysing strategic risks and opportunities, political issues, member needs, formulating high level and detailed strategies, and informing Council of issues and developments.