Employment Associate

Why Bates Wells? We’re an award winning, purpose driven City law firm. We were the first UK law firm to become a B Corp and are the highest scoring global law firm in the B Corp community. Globally recognised as the market leading UK firm for charities and purpose-driven organisations, our commercial teams are also using law as a force for good and driving change from the inside out. Our values are key to our success, and you’ll be able to make a real impact from day one. Come and join the firm who have a standout and authentic commitment to a triple bottom line, where we’ll never prioritise profit over people and planet. The Role We are looking for a lawyer who has strong legal skills, a sound commercial approach and who is a natural advocate and strong negotiator. The role is unique in that the team’s work is focused on our charity and not-for-profit clients. We have a growing commercial sector clientele, many of whom are within the impact economy sector. This is a unique opportunity to use your skills and experience to make a real difference. You will have a high degree of client contact, developing your own relationships and networks as well as taking a lead on the day-to-day running of matters. Key Responsibilities You will manage a caseload of both contentious and advisory work, with a focus on: • Discrimination complaints • Whistleblowing concerns • Grievance and disciplinary matters • TUPE • Redundancy • Employment issues involving safeguarding • Employment status and volunteers About You You will be a UK qualified lawyer with at least 4 years post qualification experience You will have an enthusiasm for business development, and ideally a demonstrable track record of helping to build a practice. You are passionate about client service, building strong relationships and excited about growing your own practice through business development opportunities with potential and existing clients. Experience handling employment law matters, ideally including advisory, transactional, and contentious work. Ability to take individual responsibility while being a collaborative team member. Experience managing work for multiple partners and clients while maintaining and nurturing relationships. Experience in, or a willingness to, identify and pursue new client opportunities and contribute to business development initiatives Skilled at exceeding the expectations of a demanding client base. Client-centric and outcome-oriented, with a focus on delivering results. Willing to challenge the status quo when it benefits the work. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Genuine interest in the work, with a willingness to ask questions and propose ideas. About our Employment team We are particularly well-known for working with charities and the not for profit sector. We’ve handled many high-profile test cases in the higher courts, both in the UK and Europe including the recent worker status claim against Uber (acting for the test Claimants) and the Coleman v Attridge Law case which established the principle of associative discrimination. We represent both employers and employees, from first query to tribunal whilst managing risk and resolve disputes. We’ve sat on both sides of the table – so we’re better than most at seeing issues from every angle and predicting how each side will act. What are we like to work for? Impact-Driven Purpose : We align profit with social purpose to create lasting positive impact for our people, communities, and planet. Committed to the Climate: Through our Climate & Nature Group, we reduce environmental impact and drive a just transition to net zero. Championing Inclusion: We foster a diverse, inclusive culture where creativity and innovation thrive. Flexible and Hybrid Working: Our hybrid model supports balance, with part-time options and at least two office days weekly. Progressive Benefits: We offer sustainable pensions, IVF support, private healthcare, and more for your well-being and growth. At Bates Wells, equity, diversity, and inclusion are part of who we are and how we work. As a B Corp and purpose-driven law firm, we’re committed to building a workplace that is fair, inclusive, and representative of all.