Senior Employment Lawyer

Senior Employment Lawyer

£59,697 to £64,929 per annum

West Midlands Police’s Joint Legal Services is expanding, and we’re looking for a Senior Employment Lawyer to take a pivotal role in shaping employment law strategy across two of the UK’s largest police forces. This is a rare opportunity to tackle high-profile, sensitive cases while managing and developing a talented legal team.

About the Role
As Senior Lawyer, you will provide expert advice and representation in employment law matters on behalf of the Chief Constables and Police and Crime Commissioners for Staffordshire and West Midlands Police. This includes defending claims before Employment Tribunals and other relevant forums, often dealing with complex and high-profile cases that demand precision and diplomacy.

Beyond casework, you’ll support the Principal Solicitor by leading a dedicated team of lawyers, trainees, and paralegals, ensuring excellent service delivery. This role offers a unique blend of legal challenge, strategic input, and team leadership, with scope to drive forward career development.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide timely, accurate legal advice on employment law matters and represent clients in legal proceedings, with occasional advocacy as required.
• Manage a varied and high-stakes caseload, defending employment claims against the Chief Constables.
• Supporting the Principal Lawyer in leading a talented team of lawyers and support staff.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team, including a lawyer, trainee legal advisor, and paralegal.
• Support strategic objectives by overseeing key projects, managing risk, and allocating work effectively.
• Attend Gold Command meetings and liaise with multiple agencies to provide clear legal guidance.
• Work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders, including Counsel, to achieve the best outcomes.
• Balancing an independent caseload while contributing to team leadership and strategic projects.

What We’re Looking For

• Significant PQE in employment law, with experience managing a complex caseload independently.
• A qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive with a track record of handling sensitive and high-profile matters.
• Proven leadership skills, including experience in performance management, team development, and delegation.
• A “can-do” attitude, with the ability to build relationships and navigate the complexities of in-house legal practice.

Why Join Us?

• Career Development: Comprehensive training, tailored inductions, and opportunities for internal promotion in a forward-thinking team.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working (two days per week in the office), a 36.5-hour workweek, and flexitime.
• Competitive Benefits: 28 days’ annual leave (rising to 33 after five years), annual pay increases, and access to a Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Diverse, Challenging Work: Engage with a variety of interesting and sensitive cases that make a tangible difference.
• Modern Environment: Operate in a tech-savvy, supportive team that values innovation and collaboration

Benefits

We understand that great legal professionals deserve great rewards. That’s why we offer a benefits package designed to support your career and your wellbeing:

•    28 days’ annual leave, rising with service, plus the option to buy additional leave.

•    Hybrid working (minimum 2 days per week at Lloyd House, Birmingham).

•    Access to Police Mutual services, offering financial advice, healthcare, loans, and more.

•    Local Government Pension Scheme, with flexibility to suit your retirement needs.

•    Family-friendly policies, including enhanced parental leave and childcare voucher schemes.

•    Discounts on gym memberships, travel, leisure, homeware, and tech.

•    Access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme for you and your family.

Take the Next Step
This is your chance to join a dynamic in-house legal team where your expertise and leadership will drive real impact. Apply today to play a key role in shaping workplace justice and contributing to the mission of West Midlands and Staffordshire Police.