The Business
Nigel Wright have been appointed to support Neptune North with multiple hires into their Newcastle office. Neptune North are a Joint Venture between Oliver Wyman and Rokos Capital Management specialising in providing premium technology consulting services. 

Neptune North pride themselves on employing and developing the very best talent in the North East. As such, if you are keen on a fast paced and dynamic environment, offering a prestigious work experience and career development this role could be for you.

The Role
Duties and Responsibilities:

This role will play a critical role in providing legal counsel and support for employment-related matters. This role requires a candidate with a strong legal background, a minimum of 5 years of professional experience, and a deep understanding of UK employment law, compliance and regulatory issues. 

As Legal Counsel (Employment), responsibilities will typically include:
Legal Advisory: 
o    Provide expert legal advice and guidance on a wide range of UK employment-related issues, including contracts, terminations, discrimination, harassment, and employee benefits
o    Stay current with all relevant UK employment laws, regulations, and industry best practices 

Contract Review and Drafting:
o    Review and negotiate employment contracts, non-compete agreements, settlement agreements, and other employment-related documents in compliance with UK and international employment law 
o    Ensure that employment contracts are legally sound and align with the firm’s objectives 

Compliance and Risk Management:
o    Develop and implement employment policies, procedures, and compliance programs to mitigate legal risks to the UK 
Ensure the hedge fund’s compliance with UK employment regulations, including data protection and equal opportunity laws 

Litigation Support:
o    As they may arise, collaborate with external legal counsel in employment-related litigation, including discrimination claims, wrongful termination suits, and other disputes

Employee Relations:
o    Work closely with HR and management to resolve employee relation issues, providing advice on disciplinary actions, grievances, and dispute resolution, considering UK employment practices
o    Advise on employee-related matters, such as workplace investigations and disciplinary actions, with knowledge of UK employment customs 

Training and Education: 
o    Provide training to HR personnel and management on UK employment law compliance and best practices
o    Keep the firm informed about legal developments in UK employment law and their implications for the hedge fund’s employment policies 

Background
What makes a great candidate:

• A minimum of 5 years of professional legal experience with a strong focus on UK employment law, preferably in the financial industry or a related sector 
• An excellent academic record, including LLB or equivalent UK law degree from a Russell Group University or top 10 world ranking University and active membership in a UK legal association or bar
• In-depth knowledge of UK employment laws, regulations, and compliance standards 
• Strong negotiation, drafting, and analytical skills with a UK-specific legal context 
• Experience with employment litigation and dispute resolution within the UK
• Familiarity with UK regulatory authorities and their impact on employment matters, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA)
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment 
• High ethical standards and a commitment to maintaining the highest levels of confidentiality and integrity

We would also prefer you to have:

• Knowledge of international employment law.

Package
£competitive

Next steps:
If you are interested in hearing more please do reach out to Emma Smith: