We are seeking a professionally qualified and experienced Head of Legal to lead our legal team and provide professional legal advice on employment law matters. The Head of Legal role is pivotal in supporting our Senior Management Team, staff, and members, ensuring that our legal services are effective and aligned with the union's objectives of building union power.
Salary and Location
• Band 5, Regional Spine points 23-19
• Starting salary: £58,877 p.a. rising to £67,689 p.a. in annual increments
• PCS Birmingham
Successful candidates for the Head of Legal will be able to demonstrate:
• Proven experience in employment law and legal management
• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities
• Commitment to promoting equality and diversity in the workplace
• Ability to work collaboratively and manage complex legal issues
The main duties of the Head of Legal role include:
• Delivering expert legal guidance and representation on employment law issues
• Conducting legal research, drafting claims, and representing members in employment tribunal hearings and negotiating on their behalf
• Managing a team of legal professionals, overseeing casework management and ensuring alignment with the union's strategic goals
• Building and maintaining relationships with contractors to ensure cost-effective services
As a qualified solicitor/legal executive with at least 5 years of post-qualification experience, you will be able to show how you maintain and share your up to date knowledge of employment legislation as the Head of Legal. You will be committed to developing your team, through training, appraisal and the use of technology. An understanding of the political processes in the UK and the role and work of trade unions is essential for the Head of Legal role.
Closing date: at 12 midday on Wednesday 12 February 2025
Interviews will be held by Zoom: Wednesday 26 February 2025
Selected applicants may be invited to a second interview on Friday 28 February 2025.
About PCS
PCS is the Public and Commercial Services Union, representing many thousands of members working in the civil service and related areas.
Employer Benefits
You will have access to a generous package of staff benefits including
• flexible working (including hybrid working)
• childcare and family support
• generous maternity/paternity leave
• 32 days leave and Christmas closure
• pension scheme
• employee assistance programme
Learning and Development
The union offers a wide range of learning and development opportunities. We will work with you to support your continued professional development.
PCS Recruiting Process
We use CVMinder to manage all recruitment activities. It helps us to maintain our commitment to equality and diversity by ensuring that we are fair and compliant with our recruiting practices.
Applications must be received by the closing date and time specified.
Candidates invited for interview are required to make themselves available on the date/s specified. Interview dates cannot be changed to accommodate candidates who are unavailable to attend on the specified date.
• CVs will not be accepted. Please see the job description/person specification and follow the application process.
• PCS is working towards equal opportunities and is positive about disabled people.
• All posts can be considered on a full-time, part-time or job share basis.
Please view our guidance for applicants.