Job Description
Employment Principal Associate (6+ PQE)
Location: Manchester
Practice: Employment (Contentious & Non-Contentious)
A leading UK law firm is looking to appoint a Senior Employment Associate (6+ PQE) to join its top-ranked Employment team in Manchester.
This is a senior-level opportunity to play a key role in a growing and highly regarded practice, working closely with partners, leading on client relationships and supporting the development of junior lawyers.
The Role
You will work across a broad mix of contentious and advisory employment matters, with a strong focus on corporate and education sector clients.
Your work will include:
* Advising on a wide range of non-contentious employment matters, including restructurings, TUPE, and strategic HR issues
* Managing Employment Tribunal litigation from initial instruction through to hearing
* Supporting corporate transactions with employment law input
* Delivering client training, seminars and legal updates
* Leading on client relationships and day-to-day advisory work
* Supervising and mentoring junior lawyers
You will also play a key role in business development initiatives, helping to grow the team’s client base and market presence.
The Team
You will join a highly ranked Manchester Employment team, forming part of a wider national group of over 70 employment, pensions and immigration lawyers.
The team advises a broad client base across sectors including commercial businesses and education, and is known for delivering commercial, pragmatic advice on complex employment matters.
The Candidate
* Qualified solicitor with 6+ years’ PQE in employment law
* Experience gained at a recognised firm with a strong employment practice
* Strong experience across both contentious and non-contentious matters
* Proven ability to manage tribunal cases and deliver client-focused advice
* Experience supervising junior lawyers and contributing to team development
* Commercially minded with an interest in business development and client growth
Why Consider This Opportunity
* Join a top-ranked employment team with strong national support
* Take on a senior, visible role with real client responsibility
* Opportunity to lead on matters and mentor junior lawyers
* Strong platform for long-term progression and career development
* Collaborative, supportive culture with flexible working options
This is a strong opportunity for a senior employment lawyer looking to step into a leadership-oriented role within a well-regarded Manchester team, combining high-quality work with genuine progression prospects.