Senior Employment Counsel
About the Role
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Employment Counsel to join our legal team in London. This role is pivotal in providing expert advice on employment law matters across our global operations, ensuring compliance with UK and international regulations, and supporting strategic HR initiatives. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in employment law within the financial services sector, preferably with exposure to hedge funds or investment management firms.
Key Responsibilities
- Advise on all aspects of UK employment law, including contracts, terminations, disciplinary actions, discrimination claims, and regulatory compliance.
- Partner with HR and senior leadership to develop and implement employment policies aligned with business objectives and legal requirements.
- Manage complex employment disputes, including litigation and arbitration, and liaise with external counsel as needed.
- Provide guidance on cross-border employment issues and global mobility programs.
- Support M&A transactions and restructuring projects from an employment law perspective.
- Monitor legislative changes and proactively update internal policies and practices.
Qualifications & Experience
- Education: Law degree from a Russell Group university (or equivalent academic excellence).
- Professional: Qualified solicitor in England & Wales with a minimum of 8+ years PQE in employment law.
- Industry Experience: Strong background in financial services, ideally with experience in hedge funds, asset management, or investment banking.
- Proven track record of handling complex employment matters in a fast-paced, highly regulated environment.
- Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Prior in-house experience within financial services or a hedge fund environment preferred; top-tier private practice background also considered.
- Familiarity with FCA regulations and SMCR implications for employment matters is advantageous.
- Excellent drafting, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
Preferred Attributes
- Strategic thinker with the ability to balance legal risk and commercial objectives.
- Strong negotiation skills and experience managing external counsel.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic, global organization.
FAQs
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