At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert legal advice on employment matters and collaborate with HR teams.
- Company: Join Fidelity International, a leader in building better financial futures.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth in a global organisation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee wellbeing and diversity initiatives.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with experience in employment law and data protection.
The predicted salary is between 78750 - 96250 £ per year.
About the Opportunity
Job Type: Permanent
Application Deadline: 10 November 2026
Department: Group Employment Legal Services & Policy
Location: UK
Reports To: Head of Group Employment Legal, Conduct and Privacy
About Fidelity International
We’re proud to have been helping our clients build better financial futures for over 50 years. How have we achieved this? By working together - and supporting each other - all over the world. So, join our team and feel like you’re part of something bigger.
Department Description
The Employment Legal Services and Policy team is an integral part of the Group Employment Legal, Conduct and Privacy function which sits within the General Counsel area. The primary objective of this team is to provide legal advice on employment related matters to the global HR and business functions, delivering pragmatic solutions and managing legal risk across the range of employment legal issues.
Purpose of the Role
The primary objective of the Employment Legal Counsel is to provide expert employment legal advice to the various HR teams and the business across the UK and Ireland. The successful candidate will need to be able to work effectively across this region as well as collaborating with colleagues across the global Fidelity footprint.
This role has a broad spectrum of responsibilities and will be required to advise on legal issues in a commercial and pragmatic way such that legal risk is minimised whilst achieving optimum outcomes for both the business and the individual.
Key Responsibilities
- Working closely with the Employee Relations team and directly with the HR Business Partners to provide legal advice on challenging and sensitive grievances, disciplinaries, data protection matters, potential litigation issues, changes to terms and conditions, whistle blowing, restructure initiatives, redundancy programmes and performance issues.
- Conducting and managing litigious matters, including attendance at mediations, and liaising with senior management to ensure they are kept informed at strategic points in the process.
- Providing legal support to the Employment Legal process and policy lead in reviewing and drafting amendments to local country Employee Handbooks to reflect changes in the law and FIL policy.
- Working with Corporate and Commercial Legal on outsourcing and corporate transactions.
- Providing legal advice to the Global Data Privacy teams on employee related privacy concerns.
- Providing regular updates to the HR Generalists on developments in employment law relevant to their jurisdiction.
- Facilitating the provisions of Respect in the Workplace awareness training to managers.
- Managing relationships with external law firms.
- Assisting in the compiling and provision of data for Board reports and conduct dashboards.
- Contributing to the overall strategy and goal agenda for the Employment Legal Services team.
Experience and Qualifications Required
- Qualified lawyer with strong technical knowledge and experience of advising on employment law and data protection issues across UK & Ireland.
- The ability to deliver legal advice that is both tactical and strategic, expressing complex legal concepts in an easily understood way.
- A self-starter who is able to think laterally and handle a wide portfolio of matters at any one time, prioritising under pressure and managing client expectations.
- A credible personal presence with the ability to instil confidence.
- Able to build strong relationships with peers and business counterparts and enjoys working collaboratively within a team.
- Demonstrates ability to take tasks on using initiative, providing practical ideas and suggestions.
- Experience of working in a global matrixed organisation is preferable.
- A keen interest in exploring and working with new AI tools to support with legal advice and work efficiency.
- Good knowledge of Microsoft tools, particularly Outlook, Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
Legal Counsel - Employment Legal employer: Fidelity International
At our London office, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and supportive work culture that empowers our Equity Research Analysts to thrive. With a strong emphasis on employee development, we offer comprehensive benefits and flexible working arrangements, ensuring that you can balance your professional and personal life while contributing to meaningful investment decisions. Join us to be part of a dynamic team where your insights are valued and your growth is prioritized.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel - Employment Legal
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Fidelity International, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Counsel - Employment Legal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Fidelity International, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Fidelity International and the specific role of Legal Counsel - Employment Legal. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Fidelity International’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fidelity International
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Fidelity International.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Fidelity International.
