At a Glance
- Tasks: Handle diverse employment cases and build strong client relationships.
- Company: Top-tier boutique employment law practice in Bristol with a people-first culture.
- Benefits: Up to £90,000 salary, bonus scheme, private health insurance, and 30 days annual leave.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team where you can thrive professionally and personally.
- Qualifications: 8+ years PQE in employment law with strong advisory experience.
- Other info: Exceptional flexibility with hybrid and remote work options available.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
This is a standout opportunity for a senior employment lawyer to join a top-tier, specialist employment practice in Bristol that genuinely punches above its weight. The firm is consistently ranked in both Legal 500 and Chambers, competing directly with much larger commercial firms yet offering something refreshingly different: autonomy, flexibility and a people-first culture where quality of work and quality of life genuinely coexist. With a strong pipeline of work and exceptional retention, this role is ideal for an experienced employment lawyer who wants intellectually stimulating work, meaningful client relationships and a clear route to partnership - without the rigid structures of a traditional large firm.
This is a highly respected boutique employment law practice, led by one of the South West's most experienced and hands-on employment specialists, who is personally recognised in Chambers UK for tribunal advocacy and senior exits. Despite its size, the firm has been ranked for over a decade, praised for delivering City-quality advice with a pragmatic, human and commercially astute approach. Client feedback is outstanding, with consistently top-tier reviews highlighting responsiveness, clarity and expertise. The ethos is simple: do brilliant work, treat people like adults and build long-term relationships - with clients and colleagues alike.
You will handle a high-quality and genuinely varied employment caseload, typically split 75% employer / 25% employee, covering both contentious and advisory matters, including:
- Employment tribunal litigation
- Senior exits and executive advisory work
- Discrimination, whistleblowing and complex disputes
- Restructuring and business change projects
- Restrictive covenants and post-termination issues
- Delivering client training and management workshops
- Contributing to thought leadership, seminars and practice development
You will work closely with national and regional employers, as well as senior executives, and play a visible role in shaping client relationships and the wider direction of the practice. Importantly, billable hours are not viewed in isolation - overall contribution is valued and targets are set collaboratively, not imposed.
What They’re Looking For
- 8+ years’ PQE in employment law
- Strong experience advising both employers and employees
- A pragmatic, commercial and confident approach to complex matters
- Excellent client-care skills with a relationship-led mindset
- Interest in mentoring, business development and contributing to the wider firm
- Ambition to progress, with partnership firmly on the table
What’s In It for You
- Salary up to £90,000 (depending on experience)
- Bonus scheme
- Genuine partnership prospects, with potential for equity
- Private health insurance
- Cashback health scheme
- 5% employer pension contribution
- 30 days’ annual leave
- Exceptional flexibility - hybrid, remote, part-time or flexi-time all considered
- A senior, collegiate team with outstanding retention
- Exposure to top-quality work without big-firm politics
This is a rare chance to join a firm where senior lawyers are trusted, supported and given space to thrive - professionally and personally. Yolk Recruitment is an equal opportunities employer and embraces diversity in our workforce. We employ the best people for the job at hand and actively encourage applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, disability, educational background, parental status, gender identity or any other protected characteristic. We champion and celebrate diversity at Yolk allowing our team to bring their whole selves to work.
Please note, whilst we do our best to contact all candidates, due to the high number of applications we receive we cannot guarantee this for every role. If you have not heard anything from us within 7 days of applying - then unfortunately you have been unsuccessful. Please keep an eye on our website for more opportunities.
Senior Employment Lawyer in Bristol employer: Yolk Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Yolk Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Employment Lawyer in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the legal field, especially those who work in employment law. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Consider writing articles or blog posts about recent developments in employment law. This not only showcases your knowledge but also helps you build a personal brand. Plus, sharing this content on social media can attract potential employers to you.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios specific to employment law. Think about how you would handle complex cases or client relationships. The more prepared you are, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time to shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be the perfect fit for you. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to joining our fantastic team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Employment Lawyer in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Senior Employment Lawyer role. Highlight your 8+ years of PQE and any relevant cases you've handled, especially those involving both employers and employees.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your passion for employment law and how your pragmatic approach aligns with our people-first culture. Don’t forget to mention your interest in mentoring and business development!
Showcase Your Client-Care Skills: We value strong client relationships, so be sure to include examples of how you've built and maintained these in your previous roles. This will demonstrate your relationship-led mindset and your ability to handle complex matters.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Yolk Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest employment law trends and cases. Being well-versed in both employer and employee perspectives will show that you’re not just knowledgeable but also adaptable, which is key for this role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss specific cases you've handled, especially those involving tribunal litigation or complex disputes. Highlight your approach to client relationships and how you’ve contributed to business development in previous roles.
✨Emphasise Your People Skills
This firm values a people-first culture, so be ready to talk about how you build long-term relationships with clients and colleagues. Share examples of how you’ve mentored others or contributed to team success.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm's culture, their approach to work-life balance, and how they support professional growth. This shows your genuine interest in the firm and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.