Publicis Groupe is one of the largest advertising agency holding companies in the world and a global marketing, communications, and digital transformation leader. Publicis Re:Sources is the Groupe's Shared Services Platform, a centralised backbone supporting 63+ markets and servicing a network of prestigious agencies across the globe proving business solutions, technology platforms and expertise to help Publicis Groupe agencies do what they do best: create and innovate for clients.

Publicis Groupe UK, part of the global Publicis Groupe network, offers a comprehensive range of services including advertising, media planning and buying, digital and interactive marketing, and public relations. The group collaborates with numerous high-profile clients to deliver integrated and innovative marketing solutions. Re:Sources UK is dedicated to supporting all Publicis Groupe UK agencies. We are seeking a highly motivated Employment Lawyer to join the Re:Sources UK in-house employment legal team on a maternity cover basis. Whilst in-house experience is desirable, we are open to applications from those looking to make the move in-house.

This position is maternity cover for a fixed term period of 12 months (January to December 2025) reporting to the Head of UK Employment Law. The role is available on a full or part time basis, and will be based in our London office. Please only apply if you have the right to work in the UK.

The Employment Legal Team, supports all UK Publicis Groupe agencies with all employment related queries, including cross jurisdictional issues. No day is the same. You will have a number of different stakeholders and this will include working closely with the UK HR/Talent Teams & UK leadership team. The role also involves establishing and maintaining professional client relationships with key members of agency representatives, as well as fostering good relationships with colleagues, both within Groupe UK and the wider international legal teams.

Primary Responsibilities

• Working as a team of two, assist the Head of Employment Law UK in advising the Groupe's UK business units in connection with all employee related legal issues.
• Support Groupe's UK agencies to ensure legal and regulatory compliance and manage key legal risks, liaising with other legal advisors where appropriate in relation to employment/HR issues.
• Provide day-to-day HR support advising on issues including performance management, disciplinary and grievance procedures, whistleblowing complaints, breach of confidentiality obligations, restrictive covenants and mobility clauses
• Draft and review key employment/HR precedents/ agreements/policies, ensuring they continue to comply with best practice.
• Assisting with the management of employment litigation (with external counsel) and dispute management, resolution and reporting.
• Ensure the agencies are kept updated with employment/HR developments, to include provision of relevant training on key legal issues.
• Assist and support Groupe Legal Department (International) on employment/HR issues and initiatives when requested.
• Supporting on global mobility issues including relocations, secondments and assignments and provide TUPE support.

Candidates should have experience of dealing with a range of different stakeholders, all types of employment law queries and be proactive and pragmatic in managing legal issues. Previous in-house experience is desirable, but those in private practice looking to take a first step into in-house life are encouraged to apply. 

Qualifications:

• Ideally around 5 years’ or more PQE (although of course we are happy to consider anyone who meets our requirements) and are qualified.
• Employment lawyer who is qualified to advise on English and Welsh employment law and holds a valid practising certificate.
• Significant experience of advising on employment law matters within private practice and/or in-house, to include project management experience of large-scale initiatives, such as collective redundancy consultation.
• Some international experience desirable but not essential.

Competencies:

• Solid communication and drafting skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts clearly and succinctly to internal clients.
• Excellent planning and organisational skills. Solid written and spoken communication skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities under pressure. Able to deliver clear, succinct and pragmatic advice.
• Sound legal judgement and problem solving. Excellent research and policy formation skills.
• Upholding confidentiality at all times with clients and in relation to employee interactions.
• Ability to build and maintain strong client relationships. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Publicis Re:Sources UK offers Hybrid Working. We expect a blend of working from home and working from the office. Our primary office is located in the iconic Television Centre (TVC) at White City, London. But we also have offices at Chancery Lane, and Turnmill Street in London.

Publicis Groupe UK is a Disability Confident Employer. We are committed to providing a fair assessment process and are happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments. 

Publicis Re:Sources UK has comprehensive Benefits to offer. Our full health and lifestyle benefits package will be shared when you join us. In addition to standard benefits of Pension, Life Assurance, Income Protection and Private Medical, some of the perks are: 

• 25 days Annual Leave (plus bank holidays), a Birthday Day Off, Flexible Bank Holidays and two Reflection Days
• Help@Hand, our lifestyle and wellbeing app that supports you and your family; including 24/7 Helpline, Remote GPs, Physiotherapy, Nutritional Consultations, Savings & Discounts and lots more. 
• Inclusive Policies to support you and you family including enhanced Family Leave, Disability, Carers, Transitioning at Work,  Fertility, Menopause, Working with Cancer and Long Term conditions .
• Discounts with local restaurants and retailers in Westfield White City and TVC. Our Marcel Café also has complimentary breakfast and a subsidised lunch menu.

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