At a Glance
- Tasks: Handle diverse Employment cases and provide expert advice to clients.
- Company: A top-tier law firm with a stellar reputation in the UK legal market.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, flexible arrangements, and opportunities for career progression.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with significant business development opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a respected team and make a real impact in Employment law.
- Qualifications: 5-8 years PQE in Employment law with strong client relationship skills.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
Employement Associate - Highly Respected International Firm
A highly regarded, Legal 500 and Chambers recognised law firm, with an established reputation across the UK legal market, is looking to appoint a 5+ PQE Employment Associate to join its established and growing Employment team in Reading.
The firm is consistently recognised across leading legal directories for the quality of its lawyers, client service and specialist expertise, making this an excellent opportunity for an ambitious Employment Solicitor looking to develop their career within a well-respected practice.
The successful candidate will work closely with Partners in Reading and support clients across the firm’s wider office network. The role offers high visibility both within and outside the firm, alongside significant opportunities for business development, Partner exposure and career progression.
The Reading office acts for a number of well-known employers, with a particularly strong client base across the technology and education sectors.
The Role
The successful candidate will ideally have a strong mix of contentious and non-contentious employment experience, including:
- Capability and conduct matters
- Redundancy
- TUPE
- Whistleblowing
- Bringing and defending Employment Tribunal litigation
- Settlement negotiations
- Trade union law
- Employer and HR advisory work
- Senior executive matters
Experience within the education sector would also be highly desirable, particularly advising independent schools on matters including parent complaints and disputes, regulatory issues and SEND Tribunal matters.
This is a role with genuine scope for progression and would suit an Employment Solicitor with the drive and ambition to build their profile, develop client relationships and play a key role in the continued growth of the practice.
Key Responsibilities
- Undertake a high-quality and varied Employment caseload, providing commercially focused advice to clients.
- Advise employers, HR teams and senior executives across a broad range of Employment matters.
- Build and maintain strong, long-term client relationships.
- Contribute profitably to the Employment Team and wider Business Services Division.
- Play an active role in business development and the continued growth of the team and firm.
- Work closely with Partners and colleagues across the firm and its wider office network.
- Deliver consistently high-quality legal services in line with professional standards and ethics.
- Act as an ambassador for the firm, promoting its reputation and values positively.
Candidate Profile
The successful candidate will ideally have:
- 5–8 years’ PQE in Employment law.
- Strong specialist knowledge across both contentious and non-contentious Employment matters.
- A strong track record of advising employers and senior executives.
- Experience of Employment Tribunal litigation and settlement negotiations.
- Experience in business development and developing client relationships.
- Experience within the education sector would be advantageous.
- Solicitor, Barrister or FILEX qualification.
- Demonstrable achievement against the competency levels expected of a mid-level Associate.
- Excellent communication, organisational and client management skills.
- The drive and ambition to play an active role in the continued development of the team.
The firm operates a hybrid agile working policy , allowing employees to work from home, or another UK location, for at least 50% of their time . Other flexible working arrangements can also be considered either at the point of recruitment or during employment.
For more information, or to discuss this opportunity confidentially, please contact me at
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Employment Associate (Reading) employer: QED Legal LLP
Join a leading Legal 500 recognised firm in the Thames Valley, where you will thrive in a supportive and progressive environment dedicated to your professional growth. With a strong focus on career progression, competitive benefits, and a vibrant work culture that values collaboration and community engagement, this is an exceptional opportunity for experienced Private Client Solicitors or Chartered Legal Executives to make a meaningful impact while advancing their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Employment Associate (Reading)
✨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 QED Legal LLP, 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 Employment Associate (Reading)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at QED Legal LLP, 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 QED Legal LLP and the specific role of Employment Associate (Reading). 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 QED Legal LLP’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at QED Legal LLP
✨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 QED Legal LLP.
✨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 QED Legal LLP.