Principal Associate - Employment

JMC Legal Recruitment; Leeds; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading international law firm in Leeds seeks an ambitious Employment Principal Associate with 7+ years of PQE to join their dynamic Employment practice. This role offers the opportunity to advise on complex legal issues while fostering client relationships in a supportive and inclusive culture focused on career development.

Benefits

Market-leading salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Supportive and inclusive culture

Flexible and agile working

High-profile international matters

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years PQE as a qualified solicitor.
• Proactive in developing client relationships.
• Excellent organisational skills and passion for legal work.

Responsibilities

• Guide financial services on SMRC and conduct rules.
• Manage disputes involving restrictive covenants.
• Build and maintain strong client and industry relationships.

Skills

Client relationship management

Legal advisory

Dispute management

Networking

Organisational skills

Education

Qualified solicitor (UK qualification)

Job description

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Employment Principal Associate (7+ PQE) | Leeds

Are you an ambitious Employment Principal Associate seeking your next challenge in a leading international law firm? Celebrated for its innovative approach, client-focused excellence and dedication to fostering talent.

About the Firm

This prominent UK law firm is known for its exceptional career development opportunities, underpinned by an award-winning learning and development programme and clear progression pathways. With a reputation for innovation and adaptability, the firm operates across key sectors such as energy, life sciences, education and sport, offering a varied and dynamic workload.

The client base ranges from high-growth start-ups and SMEs to global powerhouses, including FTSE 100 giants. Diversity and inclusion lie at the heart of the firm's ethos, complemented by a modern, flexible working environment that champions work-life balance.

The Role

This is a prime opportunity for an experienced Employment Principal Associate to join the thriving Employment practice. You'll play a key role in advising on complex, high-stakes issues while contributing to the department's continued growth.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Guiding financial services organisations on key issues such as the SMRC, conduct rules, and remuneration regulations.
• Managing disputes involving restrictive covenants and team moves.
• Building and maintaining a strong network of contacts, both with clients and industry groups, to foster lasting relationships and drive new opportunities.

About You
The firm is seeking a driven and detail-oriented solicitor who thrives in a collaborative, intellectually stimulating environment.

• 7+ years of PQE as a qualified solicitor (UK qualification).
• A proactive approach to developing client relationships and industry networks.
• Excellent organisational skills and a passion for tackling challenging legal work.

Why Join?

• A market-leading salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• A supportive, inclusive culture with a strong emphasis on flexible and agile working.
• The chance to work on high-profile, impactful UK and international matters.