At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal strategies to support workers' rights and shape national policy.
- Company: GMB, a leading trade union in the UK and Ireland.
- Benefits: Final salary pension, employee assistance, childcare support, and health check schemes.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel opportunities and commitment to social justice.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in workers' lives through legal advocacy and collective action.
- Qualifications: Experience in employment law, strong leadership, and excellent negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 95558 - 95558 £ per year.
Applications are encouraged from people who are under-represented in the union. We actively encourage women, Ethnically Diverse/Global Majority Heritage, disabled and LGBT+ people to apply.
GMB is one of the UK and Ireland's largest general trade unions: we're proud to represent over half a million members from across the professional spectrum and all walks of life.
About the Role
Are you a passionate legal professional committed to social justice and workers' rights? At GMB, we are rooted in our values of solidarity, equality, democracy, and collective strength. As part of our continued commitment to ensuring fairness and justice in the workplace, we are seeking a dedicated and experienced Legal Officer to lead our national work on employment and industrial relations law, based at our National Office in London. This is more than a legal job - it's an opportunity to use your legal skills to support working people, help shape GMB's national industrial policy, and defend trade union rights. At GMB, we believe in the power of collective action to transform lives. We fight for better pay, safer workplaces, and dignity for all workers. This is a senior role at the heart of our legal strategy - supporting our members, shaping national policy, and defending the rights of working people. You'll be working alongside union leaders, solicitors, and activists to ensure that justice is not just an ideal, but a reality for our members.
About You
The successful candidate will:
- Provide advice and develop strategy in relation to legal or political work as directed by General Secretary or SMT
- Develop and co-ordinate strategy for national campaigns
- Provide advice and support to Legal Department in relation to all legal provision of services to members
- Direct and co-ordinate all national legal actions run by GMB, managing costs and strategic decisions regarding adverse cost risk, selection of external solicitors and litigation strategy.
- Provide advice and support to Political Department as required
- Provide strategic support and assistance to Press Office as needed
- GMB Managing Director for UnionLine, with overall management responsibility for all aspects of GMB's law firm supplying services to almost 1m members and their families with a current turnover of £36m
What We're Looking For
- Broad experience in employment and industrial relations law
- A masters degree or equivalent leadership experience in business management with particular expertise in legal services management, accounting and business strategy
- Strong leadership, legal management and corporate governance experience
- Excellent negotiating and key influencer skills
- Ability to build strong interpersonal relationships with diverse group from government ministers through Union officials and union members
- Experience in managing relationships with press and media, and effectively representing Union position both on and off the record
- Good organizational and IT skills
- Experience in putting together diverse and creative campaigns, which balance achieving positive industrial outcomes with other Union goals
- Good understanding of the aims of the trade union movement and the political process
This is an extremely varied but highly rewarding role, and a commitment to putting the needs of working people first is absolutely essential. In return, we offer excellent terms and benefits, including:
- Final Salary Pension Scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Childcare Assistance Scheme
- Season Ticket Loan
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Eye Care claim back Scheme
- Annual Leave Purchase Scheme
- Annual Health Check
Further Information about the role
Though the role is based at national office and will therefore be required to be in regular attendance in Euston, London, we will consider requests for the standard place of work to be located in another GMB office in one of the regions. The successful post-holder will be expected to attend regional or national meetings/events across all four nations of the UK, so a willingness to travel is a must. The hours of work for this post are designated as 'unspecified', and there will therefore be a requirement for the successful candidate to work some unsocial hours, which may include some weekend and/or evening work, when required by the role.
Grade 11 starting at £95,558.88 plus London Weighting if applicable.
General Counsel- Equal Pay and People - GMB National Office employer: GMB Union
GMB is an exceptional employer dedicated to social justice and workers' rights, offering a dynamic work environment rooted in solidarity, equality, and collective strength. Based in London, the National Office provides a unique opportunity for legal professionals to influence national policy and support over half a million members, with excellent benefits including a Final Salary Pension Scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, and opportunities for professional growth. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of working people while enjoying a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Counsel- Equal Pay and People - GMB National Office
✨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 GMB Union, 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 General Counsel- Equal Pay and People - GMB National Office
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at GMB Union, 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 GMB Union and the specific role of General Counsel- Equal Pay and People - GMB National Office. 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 GMB Union’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at GMB Union
✨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 GMB Union.
✨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 GMB Union.
