Employment Legal Counsel in Leeds

Ready to Make Your Mark in Employment Law? SBFM Limited is one of the UK's leading Facilities Management Services providers, operating across the length and breadth of the country with a team of over 5,000 people. We are growing fast, and we are looking for a talented Employment Legal Counsel to join our team and help shape the future of our in-house legal function. This is a rare opportunity to be genuinely impactful — not just another role, but a chance to build, develop, and own the legal function at the heart of a thriving business.

The Role

Reporting directly to our Chief Legal & Risk Officer, you will be at the centre of our people and employment law operations, providing expert legal guidance and acting as a trusted strategic partner to the business. You will play a key part in our continued growth — advising on employment contracts, employee relations, TUPE transfers, and workforce matters, while also supporting the team on commercial contract matters as needed. This is a stand-alone role, so we are looking for someone who is confident, resourceful, and ready to take ownership from day one.

Where You Will Work

We offer a flexible hybrid/remote working arrangement, giving you the best of both worlds. You will also have access to our vibrant, newly refurbished Leeds office (LS15). We are open to discussing part-time arrangements for the right candidate.

What You Will Do

• Employment Law Advisory — provide day-to-day employment law advice to the business, including on employment contracts, restrictive covenants, disciplinary and grievance matters, discrimination, working time, and employee relations;
• TUPE and Employee Transfers — lead on all TUPE and employee transfer matters, advising on due diligence, measures letters, and workforce reorganisations;
• Employment Tribunal Claims — manage and advise on employment tribunal claims, early conciliation, and settlement agreements;
• HR and People Team Support — work closely with the HR and People team to develop and maintain employment policies, handbooks, and procedures;
• Commercial Contract Support — support the business on commercial contracts, supplier and customer agreements, and procurement matters as a secondary element of the role;
• Professional Development — share knowledge and provide guidance and training to colleagues on employment law and contract matters;
• External Stakeholder Management — coordinate with external legal advisors and other third parties as required.

What We Are Looking For

• Qualified solicitor with substantial employment law experience gained in-house and/or in private practice;
• A proven track record in advising on employment contracts, TUPE, employee relations, and contentious employment matters;
• Some commercial law experience is desirable, particularly in contract negotiation, drafting, and procurement support;
• A proactive, self-motivated approach with an excellent eye for detail — methodical, organised, and able to work autonomously;
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, with a confident and approachable manner and a genuine 'can do' attitude;
• Strong client focus and a passion for delivering results at pace;
• A commitment to professional development and expanding expertise across diverse business areas.

In Return You Will Receive

• 28 days holiday including bank holidays;
• Newly refurbished modern office environment with free parking;
• Pension Scheme;
• Access to training and development;
• Access to internal mentoring scheme for career development;
• Regular Company social events.