Job Description Employment Solicitor Salary: £45,000 - £60,000 Location: Southend-on-Sea area | Hybrid Working Seeking an Employment Law role where you'll have genuine autonomy, direct access to senior leadership, and the opportunity to build a rewarding career in a thriving coastal town? Our client is an award-winning, family-run law firm with an extensive network of legal professionals and a stellar reputation for delivering exceptional client service. With offices across Essex and over 20 years of trusted expertise, they're expanding their Employment Law team in Leigh-on-Sea and seeking an ambitious Employment Solicitor to join them. This is an outstanding opportunity to work directly with the Managing Director, gain exposure to a diverse range of Employment Law matters, and develop your career in a firm that genuinely invests in its people. If you're an Employment Solicitor with 2 years PQE looking for variety, responsibility, and genuine career progression, this could be the perfect move for you. What Makes This Role Special Direct access to senior leadership – work closely with the Managing Director and senior team on strategic matters Diverse, quality caseload – advise both individuals and businesses (start-ups to established SMEs) across the full spectrum of Employment Law Genuine hybrid working – flexible arrangements that genuinely support work-life balance Structured career development – clear progression pathway with hands-on mentorship and CPD investment Supportive, collaborative culture – work alongside approachable partners and a friendly team of 65 professionals Award-winning firm Our client prioritises quality over quantity, offering you the platform to build a fulfilling, long-term career whilst maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The Role in Detail Day-to-Day Responsibilities: For Individual Clients: Advising on unfair dismissal, discrimination, redundancy, and settlement agreements Identifying all potential issues and securing the best legal outcomes for clients Providing clear, empathetic, and commercially minded advice during challenging situations Managing tribunal claims and negotiations with professionalism and strategic insight For Business Clients: Supporting start-ups and SMEs with day-to-day employment and HR issues Drafting and reviewing employment contracts, handbooks, and policies Advising on disciplinary procedures, grievances, TUPE, and restructuring Ensuring clients stay compliant with current employment legislation Providing accessible, pragmatic advice that protects businesses whilst maintaining fairness Business Development & Client Relations: Building strong, trusted relationships with clients and referrers Contributing to monthly targets and KPIs whilst maintaining exceptional service standards Supporting business development initiatives including networking and client engagement Communicating the firm's expertise to attract new clients and grow the practice What We're Looking For Essential Requirements: 2 years PQE as a qualified Solicitor with solid Employment Law experience Strong technical knowledge across both contentious and non-contentious Employment Law matters Experience advising individuals and businesses on a broad range of Employment Law issues Excellent communication skills – confident, clear, articulate, and approachable Client-focused approach with a commitment to delivering exceptional service and building long-term relationships Commercial awareness – ability to provide pragmatic, business-focused advice Strong organisational skills – able to manage a varied caseload, prioritise effectively, and meet deadlines Team player with a positive, flexible attitude and willingness to collaborate High ethical standards – committed to professionalism and integrity in all aspects of work Proficiency in MS Office and legal case management systems Comprehensive Benefits Package What You'll Receive: £45,000 - £60,000 per annum (depending on experience and qualifications) Genuine flexible/hybrid working – real commitment to work-life balance Clear career progression pathway – structured development with senior mentorship and partnership opportunities Professional training and CPD support – ongoing investment in your skills and expertise Medicash health cash plan – comprehensive health and wellbeing benefits Pension scheme – employer contributions to support your financial future Regular team social events – a culture that values connection and celebration Discounted parking Office closure between Christmas and New Year – extended festive break every year Supportive team environment – work alongside experienced professionals in a collaborative setting Next Steps If you're an ambitious Employment Solicitor ready to take the next step in your career with a firm that truly values its people, we'd love to hear from you. For a confidential conversation about this opportunity, please get in touch: Mara Watson Legal Recruitment Consultant Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions Email: m.watson@h-fts.com Website: www.h-fts.com All enquiries will be handled with the utmost confidentiality. Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions operates with full transparency and ethical recruitment practices – we will always obtain your written consent before presenting your details to our client.