Workplace Relations Lawyer (Senior Associate) - SYDNEY

Our Client...
Is a well known and longstanding commercial law firm, with over 300 staff, renowned for having some of the best legal talent in the country! They are a genuine market leader in a number of key areas of practice and have enjoyed strong growth and ongoing success. 

They pride themselves on their inclusive & diverse culture, genuine career opportunities, ongoing professional development initiatives and an enviable client list. 

About the Role...
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced  Workplace Relations/ Employment Lawyer  at  5+ years PAE  to join an established team in their  Sydney Office . 

Our client is seeking to appoint a Senior Associate to their growing national schools practice within the Workplace Relations (Employment, Education and Safety) team.

The role offers varied and stimulating work, direct client contact and a friendly and supportive team.

You will be involved in a broad mix of advisory and litigation work across employment, industrial relations, equal opportunity, student safety and wellbeing, duty of care, and stakeholder management—primarily in the independent education sector. The role includes:

• Advising on all stages of the employment lifecycle, commencement including commencement of employment, performance management, termination, equal opportunity, bullying, discrimination, WHS, and contractor engagements.
• Drafting employment and contractor agreements, policies, procedures, Deeds, and pleadings.
• Enterprise Agreement negotiation, preparation and lodgement, and advising on award and EA interpretation.
• Managing claims before the FWC, VEOHRC, AHRC and State Courts, including unfair dismissal, adverse action, discrimination, and breach of contract.
• Advising on mandatory reporting and compliance with reportable conduct schemes.
• Supporting schools with student safety, wellbeing, discipline, and stakeholder/media management issues.
• Contributing to internal learning and development initiatives, including CPD delivery.

• 5+ years’ PAE in workplace relations/employment law.
• Experience in the education sector (particularly student safety and wellbeing) is advantageous.
• Strong litigation and/or corporate governance experience desirable.
• Excellent drafting, communication and relationship-building skills.
• Have a well developed commercial/strategic mindset. 
• Maintain a high level of professional conduct and confidentiality at all times.
• Passionate about advancing your career in employment law with a highly reputable practice.