In house Counsel - Employment Are you an experienced employment law solicitor seeking a high-impact in-house position within an established and supportive legal team? We're working with a respected UK-based group to identify an accomplished employment lawyer Legal Counsel to join its close-knit legal team. Reporting directly to the Group Senior Legal Counsel this is a pivotal role offering a blend of contentious and non-contentious work across the full employment law spectrum. This is a rare opportunity for a legally qualified professional to step into a dynamic environment where your expertise will shape the future of employment practice across a large and diverse business. Key Responsibilities: · Act as a senior advisor to the business on all employment law matters, deputising for the Group Senior Legal Counsel when required. · Deliver commercially focused legal advice on a variety of employment matters including disciplinary issues, grievances, absence management, discrimination, redundancy, whistleblowing and TUPE. · Lead on Employment Tribunal claims - managing cases from start to finish, with scope to provide advocacy at preliminary hearings. · Partner closely with the Employee Relations team to manage risk, develop strategies and support effective case resolution. · Draft, review and maintain legally compliant employment contracts and templates, ensuring alignment with best practice. · Develop and update the Group's employment policies in collaboration with the People team. · Support large-scale change projects and consultations from an employment law perspective, contributing to strategic planning. · Deliver in-house training sessions and legal updates to HR and leadership teams across the Group. · Maintain horizon scanning responsibilities, monitoring legislative developments and preparing proactive legal briefings for stakeholders. Ideal Candidate Profile: · Qualified solicitor or barrister (England & Wales) with significant PQE in employment law (you'll probably need at least 4 years pqe to have the skills required) · Proven ability to handle complex contentious and non-contentious employment matters autonomously. · Strong litigation experience, including Employment Tribunal casework and, ideally, advocacy at preliminary hearings. · A commercial approach to legal risk - someone who can balance legal rigour with pragmatic business thinking. · Comfortable engaging with senior stakeholders and delivering training in a confident and accessible manner. · In-house experience is welcome but not essential - a private practice employment lawyer ready to move in-house would also be a strong fit. Why Apply? · Career Development: This role offers genuine progression potential within a well-structured legal team. · Variety & Autonomy: Handle a diverse and interesting caseload with the opportunity to shape policy and procedure. · Collaborative Culture: Join a people-focused organisation with a strong emphasis on values, inclusion, and support. · Influence & Impact: Be part of major projects and organisational transformation initiatives, working at the heart of decision-making. Ready to make your mark in a forward-thinking legal team? This is a unique opportunity for a legally qualified employment law specialist looking for more strategic input and a strong career trajectory in an established UK business. For a confidential discussion and to request further details, please contact our specialist in-house legal recruitment team today. Applications are welcomed from qualified solicitors or barristers with relevant UK employment law experience. BCL Legal is an equal opportunities employer.
