Associate - Employment

Employment Associate (1-5 PQE) | Central London Commercial Boutique

Take a central role in a dynamic Employment team, handling high-quality contentious and non-contentious work with significant autonomy and direct client access.

This is an opportunity for an ambitious Employment Associate to join a prestigious central London firm known for its entrepreneurial spirit and pragmatic approach. Within this boutique environment, you will move away from being a small cog in a large machine to work closely with the Head of Employment, managing your own caseload while receiving the high-level mentorship needed to evolve into a leading specialist.

The firm attracts a sophisticated client base, ranging from SMEs and large corporates to senior executives, providing the variety and technical challenge of a City practice within a collaborative, partner-led setting.

The Firm
Based in central London, this commercial boutique prides itself on being client-centred and accessible. The firm has built a reputation for stripping away the rigidity of traditional law firm structures, focusing instead on clear, commercial results and a supportive culture. This has led the firm to retain their clients for decades.

This is a practice where work-life balance is a core value rather than a marketing term. You will join a team that encourages initiative and provides the platform for you to contribute to firm strategy, marketing, and practice growth from an early stage in your career. There isn't any micro management, you'll be trained and encouraged to handle your own matters, putting your development in your hands.

The Role
You will manage a broad mix of contentious and non-contentious matters, acting as a primary point of contact for both employers and employees. The role is designed for a solicitor who enjoys the full lifecycle of employment law, from the initial drafting of a service agreement to the conclusion of complex litigation. Working closely with the head partner, you'll work on a broad range of matters.

Key responsibilities include:

• Tribunal Litigation: Running claims from inception to conclusion, including drafting pleadings and witness statements
• Advisory: Guiding clients through workplace investigations, disciplinaries, grievances, redundancies, and TUPE processes
• Drafting: Creating bespoke employment contracts, handbooks, and restrictive covenants
• Senior Exits: Advising on high-value executive departures and the protection of confidential information
• Corporate Support: Assisting the Corporate team with due diligence and employment-related drafting for transactions
• Business Development: Playing an active role in thought leadership, networking, and the firm's marketing initiatives

The Candidate

• The firm is open to experience levels between 1-5 years PQE in employment law
• Strong knowledge of both contentious and non-contentious matters
• Those with a commercial mindset are encouraged to apply and will do well here
• Confidence in managing client relationships and a collaborative approach to teamwork
• Meticulous attention to detail in drafting complex service agreements and policies

What's On Offer

• You will work in a high-touch environment with a genuine commitment to your professional development and mentorship
• The freedom to manage your own caseload with appropriate supervision and the opportunity to help shape a dynamic employment offering.
• A competitive salary and benefits package
• A genuine West End culture that is approachable and friendly, offering a sustainable work-life balance
• A hybrid working model that respects your professional autonomy
• A comprehensive package including private healthcare, a private pension scheme, bonus scheme and an open culture that encourages ideas and career progression

If this sounds of interest, please apply or reach out to Freddie Bolwell for a confidential conversation.