At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal advice and representation in employment law for union members.
- Company: Join one of the UK's largest trade unions with a strong commitment to workers' rights.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexitime, generous holidays, and a defined contribution pension.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified employment solicitor status preferred but not essential; practical experience valued.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 42090 - 52598 £ per year.
Below, you will find a complete breakdown of everything required of potential candidates, as well as how to apply. Good luck.
Deadline: Noon on 21 January 2026
Salary: £42,090 pa rising to £52,598 pa after 3 years’ service.
Location: Head Office, Salford Quays, M50 3XZ
The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers is one of the UK’s largest trade unions.
What we Offer:
- Flexitime
- 34 hours week
- Defined contribution pension.
- Generous holiday entitlement – 24 days rising to 32 days plus bank and customary holidays (pro-rata to commencing month in holiday year and number of days a week worked).
- Free onsite parking, subject to availability.
- Cycle to Work Scheme (subject to passing probation and length of contract).
- Season Ticket Loan (subject to length of contract).
- Free health assessments (post probation).
The principal duties are:
- To deliver an advice and representation service in employment and industrial law matters to Union members, representatives and officials.
- To prepare employment casework.
- Represent at tribunals.
- To oversee the work of the Employment Law Legal Advisors.
The successful applicant will possess:
- Qualified employment solicitor status is desirable but not essential or equivalent practical experience of employment law and employment tribunals.
- The ability to communicate effectively.
- The ability to prioritise work, meet deadlines and well-developed planning and organisational skills.
- Experience in advising and representing members in employment tribunal cases, including undertaking advocacy at tribunal hearings.
- Legal research skills.
- IT literacy, particularly Microsoft Office.
An application pack can be downloaded from here by clicking on the ‘apply’ button. The closing date is noon on Wednesday, 21 January 2026. CVs are not accepted. No agencies please. Usdaw is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Senior Legal Advisor employer: USDAW
Contact Detail:
USDAW Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Advisor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who might know someone at the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on employment law topics relevant to the role. We recommend practising common interview questions with a mate or even in front of the mirror. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your advocacy skills! If you have experience representing clients at tribunals, be ready to share specific examples during your interview. We want to hear about your successes and how you tackled challenges.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team at the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Legal Advisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand what we're looking for in a Senior Legal Advisor. Highlight the key responsibilities and required skills so you can tailor your application to match our needs.
Showcase Your Experience: We want to see how your background fits with the role. Use specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your expertise in employment law and tribunal representation. Make it clear why you're the right fit for us!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and long-winded sentences. Stick to the point and make sure your passion for the role shines through!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application via our website! It's the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re following the correct process. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy, which we love!
How to prepare for a job interview at USDAW
✨Know Your Employment Law Inside Out
As a Senior Legal Advisor, you'll need to demonstrate a solid understanding of employment law. Brush up on key legislation and recent case law that could impact your role. This will not only show your expertise but also your commitment to staying current in the field.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about real-life scenarios during your interview. Think about past cases you've handled or hypothetical situations you might face. Prepare concise, structured responses that highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to advocate effectively for clients.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial in this role. Practice articulating complex legal concepts in simple terms. During the interview, focus on how you convey your thoughts clearly and confidently, as this will reflect your ability to advise clients and represent them in tribunals.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
With the need to prioritise work and meet deadlines, it's essential to showcase your organisational abilities. Share examples of how you've managed multiple cases or projects simultaneously, and discuss any tools or methods you use to stay organised and efficient.