Legal Counsel - Employment
In-house
Hybrid working – Midlands
Reporting to Director of Professional Services & Brand Legal
4+ PQE
SSQ is partnered with a well-established specialist insurer that’s expanding its consultancy division. This is an opportunity to join during an exciting period of growth, acting as the head of the newly structured Professional Services Division.
This is a senior leadership role reporting directly to the Director of Professional Services & Brand Legal. You’ll take full ownership of the company’s legal employment consultancy offering, driving excellence across IR35, and employment-status advisory services. This is an excellent opportunity for a 4PQE+ solicitor to join an ambitious business at a pivotal stage of growth.
Suitable for those with extensive Legal experience from Private Practice or in-house within an Employment or Tax team. They will consider candidates with either contentious or non-contentious experience.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and develop legal policy and procedure, setting direction and ensuring high-quality client delivery.
* Oversee all IR35, off-payroll, and employment-status advisory work, ensuring technical accuracy and commercial relevance.
* Act as senior lead on complex or contentious client cases, including HMRC enquiries and employment tax disputes.
* Build and scale the team providing, training, and support for professional development.
* Monitor legislative change and shape the company’s response to evolving tax and employment status regulations.
* Represent the business externally as a thought leader in IR35 and contingent workforce compliance.
* Partner closely with commercial, marketing, and client teams to support business growth.
Candidate Requirements
* Qualified Solicitor with 4+ years PQE
* Proven expertise in IR35, off-payroll working, employment status, and related HMRC legislation.
* Strong track record in contentious employment or tax matters, including defending clients against HMRC challenges.
For more information, or how to apply, please contact me at Poppy.Taylor@ssq.com / 07534087340