Hays
Employment Legal Director / Senior Associate

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Your new firm
Our client is a highly regarded and rapidly growing Top 100 UK law firm with a strong reputation for innovation and collaboration. Known for its ambitious growth strategy and commitment to client service, the firm combines national reach with a local presence. As part of its continued investment in the Employment practice, they are seeking an experienced Employment Legal Director or Managing Associate to join their dynamic team in the Southwest.
Your new role
You will be joining a well-established Employment team that advises a diverse client base across sectors such as retail & consumer, energy & infrastructure, and private equity. The role offers a mix of non-contentious and contentious work, with a particular focus on transactional support to the firm's Corporate client base. You will also play a key role in business development, strengthening client relationships and identifying opportunities to grow the practice while helping supervise and support juniors in the team.
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.
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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 you'll need to succeed
You will bring significant experience in Employment law, with a strong track record in handling a predominantly advisory corporate support caseload. The ability to lead on complex projects and support junior team members is essential, alongside commercial awareness and confidence in developing client relationships. A collaborative approach and enthusiasm for contributing to the team's growth will ensure your success in this role.
What you'll get in return
You'll join a forward-thinking firm that values its people and offers a competitive salary and benefits, flexible and hybrid working options, and a supportive culture focused on professional development. You'll also have the chance to work with high-profile clients and make a real impact. This is an excellent opportunity for Employment lawyers based in the Southwest or those looking to relocate to the region.


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What you need to do now
If you are interested in this role or are looking for further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.
If this job isn't right for you, but you are looking for a new job, please feel free to get in touch for a confidential discussion on your career.
We would expect a lawyer with the given PQE to have gained the level of experience required, but this does not preclude applications from those with more or less PQE. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk
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