Legal Counsel - Employee Relations

Robert Walters; London; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment consultancy based in London seeks an experienced Employment Law Advisor with a focus on employee relations. You will provide commercially astute advice across the EMEA region and manage complex employee issues while ensuring legal compliance. The ideal candidate has a legal qualification and at least five years' experience, preferably in financial services. This role emphasizes a client-focused approach and strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• At least five years' post-qualification experience in employment law.
• Experience advising on complex employee relations issues.
• Track record of working within the financial services sector preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide advice on employee relations and employment law matters.
• Manage complex employee relations issues.
• Lead centralised project work including M&A activities.

Skills

Client-focused approach

Strong influencing skills

Outstanding written and verbal communication

Empathy and dependability

Education

Legal qualification from the UK or Europe

Job description

What you'll do:

• Provide commercially astute advice on a wide spectrum of employee relations and employment law matters across the EMEA region, ensuring compliance with local regulations and best practices.
• Partner closely with HR Business Partners, Reward teams, Compliance, Finance, and Legal colleagues to deliver effective solutions that align with business objectives.
• Manage complex employee relations issues such as disciplinary actions, grievances, litigation case management, restructuring or reorganisations, performance management processes, and regulatory change projects.
• Support both front office and support function client groups by delivering tailored guidance on sensitive employment matters.
• Lead or contribute to centralised project work including M&A activities, policy development, process improvement initiatives, and adaptation to evolving regulatory requirements.
• Act as a trusted advisor by building strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels of the organisation through clear communication and collaborative problem-solving.
• Ensure that all advice provided is client-focused and solution-oriented while maintaining high standards of professionalism and integrity.
• Contribute to the ongoing development of the Employee Relations agenda by sharing knowledge, identifying trends, and recommending proactive interventions.
• Champion diversity, equity and inclusion by supporting policies and practices that foster an inclusive workplace culture.
• Participate in training sessions or workshops aimed at upskilling colleagues on employment law topics or changes in legislation.

What you bring:

• A legal qualification from the UK or Europe with at least five years' post-qualification experience focused on employment law or employee relations within a corporate setting.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously while thriving in a collaborative team environment that values shared success.
• Demonstrable client-focused approach combined with strong influencing skills enabling effective partnership with HR Business Partners and other internal stakeholders.
• Experience advising on complex employee relations issues including disciplinary actions, grievances, litigation management, restructuring processes, performance management frameworks, and regulatory change initiatives.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills allowing you to convey intricate legal concepts clearly to diverse audiences.
• A track record of working within the financial services sector is preferred; cross-border expertise navigating international employment law complexities is highly desirable.
• Solution-oriented mindset with a commitment to delivering practical outcomes that balance business needs with legal compliance.
• Ability to build rapport quickly with colleagues at all levels through empathy, dependability, and respectful collaboration.
• Commitment to upholding principles of diversity, equity and inclusion in all aspects of your work.

If you would like more information, please apply below.

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates