DWF
Associate / Senior Associate - Employment

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Why join us?
DWF are seeking a seasoned Employment Lawyer to join our nationally recognised Employment team and work with some of the most dynamic clients and colleagues in the industry.
We have large Employment Legal Services and Pension teams who work globally and act for a broad range of clients, from local SMEs to multinational conglomerates. We also advise human resources teams, in-house lawyers, and provide support directly to businesses.
We combine top-tier legal expertise with a refreshingly modern approach to client service and team collaboration.
As an Associate / Senior Associate in this team, you can expect to participate in high-quality work from and with clients operating across a variety of sectors. This work is underpinned by a supportive and collegiate working environment and team.
The successful candidate can be based in any of our regional offices including Birmingham, Liverpool, Leeds, Newcastle, Manchester, Edinburgh or Glasgow office with the option of a hybrid working arrangement.
Responsibilities
- Manage your own caseload, handling everything from day-to-day advisory work to employment tribunal litigation.
- Provide pragmatic, business-focused advice on issues including TUPE, reorganisations, contracts, policies, and senior exits.
- Work closely with our corporate and commercial teams on high-value transactions.
- Take ownership of tribunal claims — from drafting pleadings to conducting advocacy.
- Play a hands-on role in mentoring junior lawyers and supporting their development.
- Contribute to the team’s growth through networking and business development.
- Be trusted to deliver the highest standard of service to a diverse and loyal client base.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
What will help you succeed in this role?
Essential
- A track record of providing practical, strategic advice to employer clients.
- Tribunal experience and comfortable managing cases end-to-end.
- Experience with TUPE and employment issues arising from M&A activity.
- 5+ years' PQE in Employment Law, ideally in a national or well-regarded regional firm.
- Previous experience of managing your own caseload.
- Excellent negotiation and drafting skills.
- A collaborative mindset and genuine interest in mentoring and team development.
- Ability to analyse complex legal issues and provide clear guidance.
- Proven ability to multi-task and prioritise.


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What we offer?
We are committed to ensuring that each member of our team feels valued and duly rewarded during their time at DWF.
We are an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support needed. If you're excited about the opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all the requirements, please apply anyway. You may be the right candidate for the role or others across the wider team.
About us
DWF is a leading global provider of integrated legal and business services. We empower people to be themselves within an inclusive and supportive environment, enabling everyone to achieve their full potential in line with their abilities and career aspirations.
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