

Karen Ansen is a dedicated and accomplished legal practitioner with nearly two decades of experience in workplace, industrial relations, and employment law. Known for her relationship-focused approach, Karen excels in guiding clients through complex legal landscapes, always delivering pragmatic and effective solutions. Her passion for transforming the traditional perception of employment law is evident in her empathetic leadership style and innovative vision. As the Principal Consultant and Lawyer at Ignite HR and Employment Law, Karen has been at the forefront since 2019, offering expert legal advice to businesses and individuals seeking clarity and direction in employment matters. Her role is synonymous with inspiration and hope, providing clients with fresh energy and confidence in their legal journeys. Before establishing Ignite, Karen led workplace relations at performHR, where she contributed significantly to shaping client strategies in Sydney. Her career trajectory includes pivotal roles as Client Service Director and Employee Relations Specialist, where she honed her skills in managing employee relations and service delivery. Earlier positions at organisations such as Aged & Community Services Australia and Leading Age Services Australia enriched her expertise in enterprise agreements and public speaking. Karen's educational background includes a Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies from The Australian National University and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of New England. She also holds a Cert IV in Training and Assessment from TAFE NSW, adding to her robust legal foundation. Known for her infectious laugh and personable nature, Karen is a valued figure within her team and among clients, embodying the perfect blend of legal proficiency and personal connection.

Principal Consultant & lawyer
Ignite HR and Employment Law
Dec 2019 - Present • 6 years 11 months

Head of Workplace Relations
performHR
Aug 2018 - Dec 2019 • 1 year 4 months

Client Service Director
performHR
Apr 2017 - Aug 2018 • 1 year 4 months

Employee Relations Specialist
performHR
May 2016 - Apr 2017 • 11 months

Employee Relations Advisor
Aged & Community Services Australia
Feb 2013 - May 2016 • 3 years 3 months

Employment Relations Advisor
Leading Age Services Australia (LASA)
May 2012 - Feb 2013 • 9 months

Workplace Advisor
Department of Industrial Relations
Jan 2004 - Present • 22 years 10 months

Cert IV Training and Assessment
TAFE NSW

Graduate Diploma Legal Studies
The Australian National University
2011 - 2013

Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.)
University of New England (AU)
2007 - 2011
Last checked: 26 Mar 2026 • Checked with Law Society of NSW