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- Tasks: Lead a talented legal team and tackle high-profile employment law cases.
- Company: Join West Midlands Police’s Joint Legal Services, shaping legal strategy for two major police forces.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 28 days annual leave, and access to a Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in workplace justice while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Significant PQE in employment law and proven leadership skills required.
- Other info: Hybrid working options and a tech-savvy team await you!
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
In-house Employment Solicitor
£59,697 to £64,929 per annum
West Midlands Police’s Joint Legal Services is expanding, and we’re looking for a Senior Employment Lawyer to take a pivotal role in shaping employment law strategy across two of the UK’s largest police forces. This is a rare opportunity to tackle high-profile, sensitive cases while managing and developing a talented legal team.
About the Role
As Senior Lawyer, you will provide expert advice and representation in employment law matters on behalf of the Chief Constables and Police and Crime Commissioners for Staffordshire and West Midlands Police. This includes defending claims before Employment Tribunals and other relevant forums, often dealing with complex and high-profile cases that demand precision and diplomacy.
Beyond casework, you’ll support the Principal Solicitor by leading a dedicated team of lawyers, trainees, and paralegals, ensuring excellent service delivery. This role offers a unique blend of legal challenge, strategic input, and team leadership, with scope to drive forward career development.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide timely, accurate legal advice on employment law matters and represent clients in legal proceedings, with occasional advocacy as required.
- Manage a varied and high-stakes caseload, defending employment claims against the Chief Constables.
- Supporting the Principal Lawyer in leading a talented team of lawyers and support staff.
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team, including a lawyer, trainee legal advisor, and paralegal.
- Support strategic objectives by overseeing key projects, managing risk, and allocating work effectively.
- Attend Gold Command meetings and liaise with multiple agencies to provide clear legal guidance.
- Work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders, including Counsel, to achieve the best outcomes.
- Balancing an independent caseload while contributing to team leadership and strategic projects.
What We’re Looking For
- Significant PQE in employment law, with experience managing a complex caseload independently.
- A qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive with a track record of handling sensitive and high-profile matters.
- Proven leadership skills, including experience in performance management, team development, and delegation.
- A “can-do” attitude, with the ability to build relationships and navigate the complexities of in-house legal practice.
Why Join Us?
- Career Development : Comprehensive training, tailored inductions, and opportunities for internal promotion in a forward-thinking team.
- Work-Life Balance : Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working (two days per week in the office), a 36.5-hour workweek, and flexitime.
- Competitive Benefits : 28 days’ annual leave (rising to 33 after five years), annual pay increases, and access to a Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Diverse, Challenging Work : Engage with a variety of interesting and sensitive cases that make a tangible difference.
- Modern Environment : Operate in a tech-savvy, supportive team that values innovation and collaboration
Benefits
- 28 days’ annual leave, rising with service, plus the option to buy additional leave.
- Hybrid working (minimum 2 days per week at Lloyd House, Birmingham).
- Access to Police Mutual services, offering financial advice, healthcare, loans, and more.
- Local Government Pension Scheme, with flexibility to suit your retirement needs.
- Family-friendly policies, including enhanced parental leave and childcare voucher schemes.
- Discounts on gym memberships, travel, leisure, homeware, and tech.
- Access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme for you and your family.
Take the Next Step
This is your chance to join a dynamic in-house legal team where your expertise and leadership will drive real impact. Apply today to play a key role in shaping workplace justice and contributing to the mission of West Midlands and Staffordshire Police.
In-house Employment Solicitor employer: West Midlands Police
Contact Detail:
West Midlands Police Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land In-house Employment Solicitor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the specific employment law challenges faced by police forces in the UK. Understanding the nuances of this sector will help you demonstrate your expertise and readiness to tackle high-profile cases.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience you have in managing a legal team or mentoring junior lawyers. This role emphasizes leadership, so showcasing your ability to develop talent will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your approach to handling sensitive cases during the interview. Be ready to provide examples of how you've navigated complex legal situations with diplomacy and precision.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the legal field, especially those who work in-house for public sector organizations. Building relationships can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals for this position.
We think you need these skills to ace In-house Employment Solicitor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the In-house Employment Solicitor position. Understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications, as this will help you tailor your application effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize your significant PQE in employment law and any experience managing a complex caseload. Provide specific examples of high-profile cases you've handled to demonstrate your expertise.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Since the role involves leading a team, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. Discuss how you've mentored or developed team members in previous roles, and provide examples of successful team projects you've led.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Craft a personalized cover letter that addresses the specific needs of West Midlands Police’s Joint Legal Services. Mention your 'can-do' attitude and ability to navigate the complexities of in-house legal practice, aligning your skills with their strategic objectives.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Midlands Police
✨Showcase Your Expertise in Employment Law
Be prepared to discuss your significant PQE in employment law. Highlight specific cases you've managed, especially those that were complex or high-profile, and explain how you navigated the challenges involved.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a team, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed and developed a legal team in the past. Discuss your approach to performance management and delegation.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle sensitive cases and provide legal advice under pressure. Think of scenarios where you had to balance legal precision with diplomacy and prepare to articulate your thought process.
✨Emphasize Collaboration and Relationship Building
This position requires working with various stakeholders. Be ready to discuss how you've built relationships in previous roles, particularly in an in-house setting, and how you’ve collaborated with internal and external parties to achieve positive outcomes.
