At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the in-house legal team and shape employment law strategy.
- Company: Join a key player in the UK education sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership role, and impactful work.
- Other info: Opportunity for remote work and strong stakeholder engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the education ecosystem while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with 5+ years PQE in employment law.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
My client is looking for an exceptional employment lawyer to join them as their Head of Legal and first in-house lawyer. Reporting into the CEO, this fantastic role will allow you to establish and lead the in-house legal capability. This opportunity offers the successful candidate a chance to work at the heart of the UK’s education ecosystem. The business has recognised the need for a permanent, experienced employment specialist to help shape the development of the organisation.
The role combines complex employment work, strategic judgement, service design and long-term leadership potential.
The ideal candidate will be:
- Qualified solicitor with a minimum of 5 PQE
- Experience of employment law or closely related disputes work, with experience of handling or supervising tribunal claims, settlement negotiations and legally complex casework
- Strong Employment background with proven ability to manage and run their own matters independently
- Experience in the education sector, or advising schools, colleges, trusts or education professionals
- Experience of professional discipline, regulatory, safeguarding related matters, inquests or similarly sensitive proceedings
- Proven experience of Advocacy experience in tribunals or other formal hearings
- Experience gained in-house, or in a membership body, insurer-backed legal service, union-adjacent organisation or similarly client-facing advisory environment
The successful person will need to be confident “holding their own” with stakeholders and external counsel. Practical, commercial mindset. Comfortable building relationships at a distance and working more remotely.
To explore this exciting opportunity further, please apply.
Head of Legal - Employment in Portsmouth employer: Taylor Root
Join a forward-thinking organisation at the forefront of the UK’s education sector as the Head of Legal - Employment, where you will have the unique opportunity to shape the in-house legal function from the ground up. Our company fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, prioritising employee growth through continuous professional development and mentorship. With a commitment to meaningful work and a supportive environment, this role not only offers competitive benefits but also the chance to make a significant impact on the educational landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Legal - Employment in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those with experience in employment law or the education sector. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even job leads.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your advocacy skills. Since this role involves tribunal claims and sensitive proceedings, be ready to discuss your past experiences and how you’ve navigated complex legal situations.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your strategic mindset! When discussing your experience, highlight how you've contributed to service design and long-term leadership in previous roles. This will demonstrate your fit for the Head of Legal position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Legal - Employment in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Head of Legal - Employment. Highlight your experience in employment law, especially any work related to education or tribunal claims. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your experience in managing complex employment matters and how you've built relationships with stakeholders.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves establishing and leading the in-house legal capability, make sure to highlight any leadership experience you have. We’re keen to see how you’ve led teams or projects in the past and your approach to strategic judgement.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Taylor Root
✨Know Your Employment Law Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in employment law, especially those relevant to the education sector. Be prepared to discuss recent cases or changes in legislation that could impact the organisation.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
This role requires a blend of legal expertise and strategic judgement. Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to not only handle complex legal matters but also contribute to the long-term vision of the organisation.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
Since you'll be working closely with the CEO and other stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed relationships in previous roles, especially in a remote setting.
✨Highlight Your Advocacy Skills
Given the emphasis on tribunal claims and formal hearings, be ready to discuss your advocacy experience. Share specific instances where you've effectively represented clients or organisations, showcasing your ability to 'hold your own' in challenging situations.
