Legal Counsel (Employment) 6+PQE in Oxford

Legal Counsel (Employment) 6+PQE in Oxford

Oxford Full-Time 68000 - 68000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Hays

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Provide expert legal advice on employment law across UK and global operations.
  • Company: Globally recognised organisation committed to ethical practice and inclusion.
  • Benefits: Up to £68,000 salary, generous pension, flexible working, and professional growth.
  • Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for continuous learning and development.
  • Why this job: Join a mission-driven team and make a real impact in complex environments.
  • Qualifications: 6+ years PQE in employment law with strong commercial awareness.

The predicted salary is between 68000 - 68000 £ per year.

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced employment lawyer to join a globally recognised organisation operating across multiple jurisdictions, delivering impactful work on an international scale. With a strong commitment to ethical practice, inclusion, and progressive organisational values, the organisation places legal expertise at the heart of its operations, helping to drive accountability, compliance, and sustainable change. Working within a highly regarded Legal and Governance team, you will collaborate with colleagues across the UK and internationally, supporting a mission-driven organisation that operates in complex and constantly evolving environments. You will be required to attend the Oxford office ideally one day per week, with some flexibility available for the right candidate and/or attend the London office instead.

As Employment Legal Counsel, you will play a pivotal role in providing expert legal advice on a broad spectrum of employment law matters across the UK and global operations. This is a dynamic, commercially focused role that combines strategic advisory work with hands-on case management in a complex international setting.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Advising on employee relations, employment disputes, and litigation across multiple jurisdictions.
  • Supporting HR teams in the UK and international programmes on complex employment law issues, including investigations and whistleblowing.
  • Managing and tracking litigation cases globally, liaising with external counsel where required.
  • Drafting and reviewing HR policies and procedures to ensure compliance with current legislation and best practice.
  • Providing practical, risk-based legal advice aligned with organisational values and priorities.
  • Delivering training, guidance, and self-service legal tools to empower internal stakeholders.
  • Monitoring legal and regulatory developments and advising senior leadership on emerging risks.

This role offers exposure beyond employment law, with opportunities to contribute to a wider range of commercial and organisational legal matters.

What you’ll need to succeed:

To thrive in this role, you will bring a strong mix of technical expertise, commercial awareness, and the ability to operate effectively in complex, international environments.

You will have:

  • UK legal qualification with 6+ years’ PQE in employment law.
  • Proven experience advising on complex employment and HR matters, including investigations and disputes.
  • Broad commercial legal experience gained in-house or within private practice.
  • Experience supporting stakeholders across different jurisdictions and managing cross-border legal issues.
  • Strong drafting skills, particularly around HR policies and procedures.
  • The ability to balance detail with strategic thinking and manage competing priorities effectively.
  • Excellent communication skills with the confidence to influence and build relationships at all levels.

Desirable experience includes multi-jurisdictional employment law exposure, additional legal specialisms (e.g. charity or commercial law), and experience advising on equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives, however this is not essential.

What you’ll get in return:

In return, you will join a collaborative and purpose-driven organisation offering:

  • A varied and intellectually stimulating legal role with global impact.
  • Exposure to complex, high-profile employment matters.
  • Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
  • The opportunity to influence organisational strategy and contribute to meaningful change.
  • A supportive environment that values continuous learning, inclusion, and professional growth.

If you are an experienced employment lawyer looking for an in-house role that combines high-quality legal work with real-world impact, we want to hear from you. Apply today to take the next step in your legal career and be part of an organisation where your expertise can truly make a difference.

Legal Counsel (Employment) 6+PQE in Oxford employer: Hays

Join a vibrant secondary school that prioritises excellence in education and fosters a supportive community for both students and staff. As the Head of Mathematics, you will benefit from a competitive salary, ongoing professional development opportunities, and a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and growth. This role not only allows you to lead a dedicated team but also to make a significant impact on student achievement in a welcoming environment.

Hays

Contact Details:

Hays Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel (Employment) 6+PQE in Oxford

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 Hays, 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) 6+PQE in Oxford

Employment Law Expertise
UK Legal Qualification
6+ Years PQE
Advising on Employee Relations
Litigation Management
Drafting HR Policies
Cross-Border Legal Issues

Some tips for your application 🫡

Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Hays, 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 Hays and the specific role of Legal Counsel (Employment) 6+PQE. 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 Hays’s culture!

How to prepare for a job interview at Hays

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 Hays.

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 Hays.