Employment Solicitor - Head of Department

Head of Employment Law – Solicitor (5+ PQE)
Location: Essex | Hybrid Working | Competitive Salary + Benefits

Below covers everything you need to know about what this opportunity entails, as well as what is expected from applicants.

Are you an experienced Employment Solicitor ready to take a step up in your career? A well-established and expanding legal practice in Essex is looking for a driven and personable senior lawyer to lead its Employment Law department. This is a standout opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping a growing team and delivering exceptional service to a diverse client base.

As the Head of Employment, you\’ll work closely with senior leadership to oversee a high-performing team while continuing to handle your own caseload. The firm has built an excellent reputation locally and offers a supportive, collaborative culture that recognises and rewards talent.

The Role:

• Lead and inspire a close-knit Employment Law team
• Manage a mix of contentious and non-contentious matters for both individuals and businesses
• Act as the go-to advisor for HR and employment queries across a range of sectors
• Maintain and develop client relationships – both existing and new
• Play a strategic role in the department\’s growth, including business development and marketing initiatives
• Deliver high-quality legal advice with a practical, client-focused approach
• Contribute to the wider firm\’s goals and performance targets

What We\’re Looking For:

• A qualified solicitor with 5+ years post-qualification experience in Employment Law
• Proven experience in managing employment litigation and advisory work
• Strong advocacy skills and the confidence to represent clients at hearings
• A natural communicator – approachable, clear, and commercially aware
• A positive leader who thrives in a team-oriented environment
• Ambitious, ethical, and motivated to contribute to a growing practice

What\’s On Offer:

• Hybrid working arrangements
• Generous benefits package, including health cover and pension
• Ongoing training and development tailored to your career goals
• A friendly, sociable team culture (including regular cake breaks!)
• Office closure between Christmas and New Year
• Discounted parking and modern office facilities

If you\’re looking to step into a senior leadership position and be part of a genuinely supportive and forward-thinking law firm, we\’d love to hear from you. Apply today for a confidential conversation.

Apply below or contact Gemma at Austen Lloyd as soon as possible, quoting Role Ref: GL 59912 (Head of Department | Employment Law | Essex)