Associate Lawyer- Employment (Education Sector)

Role Overview:

The Associate position focuses on providing comprehensive and practical employment advice and support to clients in the education sector. The role involves building strong relationships with clients and colleagues, delivering sector-oriented advice aligned with national best practices, and contributing to the ongoing development of the firm’s services in the education sector.

Responsibilities:

• Provide solution-focused, pragmatic employment advice to clients in the education sector.
• Advise schools and academies on a wide range of employment law issues, tailored to their specific sector context.
• Represent clients in employment tribunals, from Preliminary Hearings through to Full Hearings.
• Prepare for employment tribunal cases, including drafting legal documents and conducting advocacy.
• Draft contracts, policies, and procedures for clients, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
• Advise on union-related issues, including negotiations, restructures, and industrial action.
• Provide guidance on TUPE regulations, particularly in the context of academy transfers.
• Handle general employment law inquiries, including disciplinary procedures, grievances, and redundancy programs.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities for the firm.
• Contribute to marketing efforts through public speaking, writing articles, and participating in events.
• Deliver exceptional client service and stay informed about sector developments to provide compliant and sector-focused advice.
• Supervise and delegate tasks to junior team members as needed.

Requirements:

Technical Skills:

• Proficient understanding of employment law, both contentious and non-contentious issues.
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office and case management systems.
• Familiarity with online and library research resources.

Experience and Attributes:

• Experience in contentious and non-contentious employment law.
• Strong interest and passion for advising education sector clients, particularly schools and academies.
• Enquiring mind, attention to detail, and willingness to tackle new challenges.
• Commercial awareness and ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills to provide practical advice and build professional relationships.
• Willingness to attend firm and client events for networking purposes.
• Ability to generate ideas for improving client service and marketing initiatives.
• Commitment to upholding professional standards, promoting diversity and inclusion, and embracing the firm’s core values and ethics.