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:

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

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:

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

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

London or Brighton
Hybrid working available

Salary & Benefits

Competitive salary (DOE)
Attractive bonus scheme
Leadership and strategic influence within the firm
Strong long-term career prospects
High-quality work and diverse client exposure
Supportive and collaborative working environment

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
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed