Employment Solicitor - Head of Department

Employment Solicitor - Head of Department

London or Brighton | Private Practice | Leadership Opportunity | Competitive Salary + Bonus (DOE)

I am currently working with a well-established and ambitious law firm seeking an experienced Employment Solicitor to lead and further develop its Employment Department. This is an excellent opportunity for a senior employment lawyer with strong technical expertise and leadership capability to take ownership of a growing practice area and play a key role in the firm's strategic development.

The successful candidate will join a progressive and collaborative firm with a strong reputation and a high-quality client base. This position offers the opportunity to shape the direction of the department, drive growth initiatives, and build and mentor a successful team.

The Role

As Head of Department, you will lead and manage the Employment team while maintaining an active caseload of both contentious and non-contentious employment matters. You will work closely with senior stakeholders across the firm and play a central role in driving business development and long-term departmental growth.

Key responsibilities will include:

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• Leading and managing the Employment Department, including supervision, mentoring, and development of team members
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• Advising employer and employee clients on a broad range of employment law matters
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• Managing complex and high-value contentious and non-contentious employment matters
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• Overseeing employment tribunal claims and litigation strategy
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• Drafting and reviewing employment contracts, handbooks, policies, settlement agreements, and wider employment documentation
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• Supporting Corporate and Commercial teams on employment-related aspects of business sales, acquisitions, TUPE matters, restructures, and organisational change projects
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• Developing and implementing departmental strategy, growth plans, and operational objectives
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• Building and strengthening client relationships while identifying opportunities for business growth
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• Leading business development initiatives, networking activities, and profile-raising opportunities
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• Maintaining high standards of client service and ensuring compliance with regulatory and risk management requirements
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The Candidate

The firm is seeking a commercially minded and ambitious Employment Solicitor with proven leadership experience and a strong track record in developing client relationships.

Key requirements include:

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• Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales with significant post-qualification experience in Employment Law
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• Strong experience across both contentious and non-contentious employment matters
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• Previous management, supervisory, or leadership experience within a legal team
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• Strong technical expertise and the ability to manage complex matters independently
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• Excellent communication and client relationship skills
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• Demonstrable business development experience with a commercial mindset
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• Strong organisational and people management skills
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• A proactive approach with a desire to drive growth and contribute strategically to the wider business
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The Firm

This firm offers a supportive and forward-thinking culture with a strong emphasis on collaboration and progression. The Employment team works closely alongside other key practice areas, including Corporate and Commercial, providing access to a broad and high-quality client base.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to influence and shape the future direction of the department while joining a firm with ambitious growth plans.

Location

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• London or Brighton
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• Hybrid working available
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Salary & Benefits

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• Competitive salary (DOE)
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• Attractive bonus scheme
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• Leadership and strategic influence within the firm
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• Strong long-term career prospects
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• High-quality work and diverse client exposure
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• Supportive and collaborative working environment
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If you are an experienced Head of Department or an experienced solicitor ready to take the next step into strategic management, apply today or contact Natalie Dwan at LJ Recruitment for a confidential discussion.