Employment Lawyer (MI6)

If you are curious about how national security shapes an organisation’s response to employment law issues, this is the role for you. We need people who will thrive in a team environment but are also comfortable working independently. You will have strong communication skills and the ability to explain complex employment law matters clearly and simply to those without a legal background.

With a pragmatic approach to problems, you will be able to think creatively to find solutions, both independently and as part of our small collaborative team. Proactive and conscientious, you will be adept at handling complex and sensitive queries with credibility. You will often be required to work with other partners across our National Security Community and wider Government in order to solve cross-cutting issues, and you should be adept at building strong relationships with clients as a trusted adviser.

You will be a qualified solicitor or barrister, with sound PQE experience, qualified to practice in England and Wales. In-depth knowledge of employment law, with at least two years in practice is essential. Ideally, you will also have experience of working in-house in the commercial and/or public sectors, but this is not essential. To work at MI6, you need to be a British citizen or hold dual British nationality.

At MI6, the threats to our national security are constantly evolving. In our small, specialist team of employment lawyers, you will work on unique and challenging cases, supporting vital work at the heart of our organisation providing expert advice on a variety of employment and people-related matters. The diverse portfolio ranges from advising on staff policies and contracts, HR strategy, HR casework and employment litigation, through to more sensitive aspects specific to the work we do, which involves mitigating risks to national security.

This is an opportunity to use your skills and experience in ways you would expect, in a context you wouldn’t. Within this role, you’ll provide employment advice across the usual employment practice topics (including HR policy, disciplinaries, grievances, litigation, Equality and Diversity, recruitment, employment legislation). You’ll manage Employment Tribunal litigation, liaising with the ET and Counsel to progress cases. You’ll also be expected to deliver client training and attend training yourself. The role does not include any Line Management responsibilities.