Principal Employment Lawyer
£61,087 to £76,225
We are recruiting a Principal Employment Lawyer to lead and develop an established employment law function within a large, high-performing public sector legal service. This is a senior post with genuine influence, a broad advisory remit and a key role in supporting the organisation through complex, high-profile employment matters.
The role has arisen due to internal progression within the senior leadership team, and there is strong support to bring in someone who can take ownership of the employment caseload, guide junior colleagues and help shape the future of the service.
The Role
* Manage a caseload of complex employment law matters
* Provide high-quality advice on TUPE and employment claims
* Deliver clear, practical employment advice to senior professionals.
* Oversee and troubleshoot complex cases handled by junior lawyers
* Ensure consistent high standards and a sound approach to risk
* Line manage a small team of lawyers, offering supervision, coaching and day-to-day support.
* Contribute to the wider leadership of the service and help shape processes, culture and service development.
You’ll work within a collaborative and flexible structure where lawyers often support each other across different areas. The department values open communication and collective problem-solving, and you’ll have the backing of experienced Principal Lawyers in other disciplines.
About You
* Employment lawyer with experience in employment litigation and advisory work
* Strong expertise in TUPE, workforce matters and public sector employment issues
* The confidence to act as the go-to specialist, handling high-profile and sensitive issues
* The ability and desire to manage and mentor lawyers
* A collaborative approach, with the ability to support colleagues
Most importantly, you will be a steady, reliable and credible practitioner who can provide assurance across the service and maintain momentum on complex cases.
Why Join
* Work on varied, complex and high-profile matters that have real organisational impact.
* Be part of a collegiate team where Principal Lawyers support each other across disciplines.
* Lead the development and growth of the employment function
Benefits
* Local Government Pension Scheme with a competitive employer contribution
* Hybrid working with flexibility around hours and location
* Supportive and family-friendly policies, including enhanced parental leave
* Generous annual leave entitlement, with the option to purchase additional leave
* Access to an Employee Assistance Programme for work and personal support
* Ongoing professional development and opportunities to contribute to service growth