Employment Head of Department

Simpson Judge; Bristol; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading national Legal 500 firm is seeking an experienced Employment professional to lead their Employment Law department. This key leadership role requires a qualified solicitor with over 6 years PQE, strong management skills, and a commitment to high standards of client service. The firm offers a supportive environment with excellent benefits, including enhanced pension contributions and private health care options.

Benefits

30 days annual leave + Bank Holidays

Private health-care options via Bupa

Enhanced pension – 5% matched contribution

Group Life Assurance – 4x annual salary

Quarterly firm-wide social events

Qualifications

• 6+ years PQE in Employment Law.
• Experience leading a team or managing others.
• Strong experience in both contentious and non-contentious matters.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Employment Law department.
• Run and manage own caseload of employment matters.
• Provide guidance and support to team members.

Skills

Leadership

Client Service

Team Management

Employment Law

Business Development

Education

Qualified solicitor

Job description

OVERVIEW

A rare and exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and ambitious Employment professional to lead and develop a well–established Employment Law department within a highly regarded national Legal 500 firm. This is a key leadership position suitable for a current Partner or a Senior Associate ready to take the next step.

RESPONSIBILITIES

– Take full responsibility for leading and managing the Employment Law department, ensuring its continued growth, strong performance, and high standards of client service.
– Run and manage your own caseload of employment matters, both contentious and non–contentious.
– Provide guidance and support to team members, including conducting 1–1s and monthly development meetings.
– Maintain a visible and engaged presence within the department.
– Play a key role in departmental planning and business development.
– Represent the firm externally at client meetings, events, and professional networks.

ABOUT YOU

– Qualified solicitor with 6+ years PQE in Employment Law.
– Already operating at Partner level or a Senior Associate ready for promotion.
(A following is not essential for Partner level candidates, although will be recognised and reflected in the overall package)
– Strong experience across both contentious and non–contentious matters.
– Previous experience leading a team or managing others, ideally with direct line management responsibilities.

BENEFITS

– 30 days annual leave + Bank Holidays (+ birthday off)
– Private health–care options via Bupa
– Free Level 1 health–care cash–back plan for you and your family
– Enhanced pension – 5% matched contribution
– Group Life Assurance – 4x annual salary
– Enhanced maternity pay and bereavement support
– Quarterly firm–wide social events and Well–being Days
And more

If you're an experienced Employment Law specialist looking for a leadership role in a well–respected, stable, and forward–looking law firm, we'd love to hear from you.

Please apply today for a confidential discussion about this opportunity.