At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Employment team, manage caseloads, and mentor junior staff.
- Company: Established high street law firm in Leeds with a friendly culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and clear career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Opportunity to progress into Head of Department role.
- Why this job: Shape and grow the Employment Department while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: 5+ years' PQE in Employment Law and strong client care skills.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
We are working with an established high street law firm in Leeds that is looking to appoint an experienced Employment Solicitor to take a leading role within its Employment team. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Employment Solicitor who is either ready to step into a Head of Department position or is looking for a clear pathway towards heading up a department.
The successful candidate will take ownership of the Employment function, manage their own caseload and play a key role in developing the department and supporting more junior members of the team.
The Role
You will handle a broad range of contentious and non-contentious employment matters, acting for both employers and employees. Your caseload will include:
- Employment Tribunal claims, including unfair dismissal and discrimination
- Settlement agreements
- Redundancy and restructuring advice
- Employment contracts and policies
- Disciplinary and grievance matters
- Pay and contractual disputes
- HR and general employment advice
- Employment-related litigation
- Advising businesses and individuals on a range of employment issues
You will have responsibility for your matters from initial instruction through to conclusion, while also helping to develop and shape the Employment Department. A key part of the role will be supporting, mentoring and developing paralegals, trainees and more junior members of the team, helping to oversee their work and provide guidance as they develop their careers.
For the right individual, there is the opportunity to take full ownership of the department and progress into a formal Head of Employment position.
The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for an experienced Employment Solicitor who is confident handling a varied caseload and is ready to take the next step in their career. Ideally, you will:
- Have 5+ years' PQE in Employment Law, although relevant experience will be considered
- Have strong experience across both contentious and non-contentious employment matters
- Be confident managing your own caseload from start to finish
- Have experience advising both employers and employees
- Be confident dealing with Employment Tribunal proceedings
- Have strong client care and communication skills
- Be highly organised with excellent attention to detail
- Be able to manage competing deadlines and priorities
- Have good IT and case management system experience
- Be comfortable working independently while contributing positively to the wider team
- Have an interest in developing and mentoring junior staff
- Be ambitious to take on greater responsibility and, ideally, lead and develop an Employment Department
Previous experience supervising or mentoring junior lawyers would be advantageous, but candidates who are ready to take that step will also be considered.
The Opportunity
This is more than a traditional Employment Solicitor position. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to help shape and grow the Employment Department, develop relationships with local businesses and HR professionals, and become a key member of a friendly, established high street practice. For the right person, there is a genuine opportunity to progress into Head of Department, with responsibility for the development of the team, supervision of junior staff and continued growth of the Employment practice.
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
Location: Leeds
Working pattern: Hybrid working available following probationary period
Senior Employment Solicitor / Head of Employment employer: Simpson Judge
Join a well-respected high street law firm in Leeds, where you will not only manage your own caseload but also play a pivotal role in shaping the Employment Department. With a strong emphasis on mentorship and professional development, this position offers a clear pathway to leadership while enjoying a supportive and collaborative work culture. The firm's commitment to hybrid working ensures a balanced approach to your professional and personal life, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Employment Solicitor / Head of Employment
✨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.
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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 Simpson Judge, 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 Senior Employment Solicitor / Head of Employment
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Simpson Judge, 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 Simpson Judge and the specific role of Senior Employment Solicitor / Head of Employment. 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 Simpson Judge’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Simpson Judge
✨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 Simpson Judge.
✨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 Simpson Judge.
