About the Role We are currently partnering with a premier, specialist workplace relations firm in the Sydney CBD to secure a talented, technically astute Employment Associate. This is an elite opportunity for an ambitious private practice lawyer to step into a highly sophisticated, boutique environment that focuses exclusively on strategic people management and workplace law.
Reporting directly to a nationally recognized market leader and Managing Governor of the firm, you will gain unparalleled exposure to high-level, strategic mandates. This role is perfectly suited for an Associate who thrives on variety and wants a balanced practice across both front-end advisory work and back-end employment litigation.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Advisory: Provide pragmatic, executive-level advice to major corporate clients on complex workplace issues, including executive employment contracts, enterprise bargaining, organizational restructuring, and compliance.
Employment Litigation: Manage and assist on high-stakes disputation, representing employers in matters before the Fair Work Commission, Federal Court, and Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA)—including general protections, unfair dismissals, and industrial disputes.
Workplace Investigations: Assist in conducting sensitive, high-profile internal investigations regarding workplace conduct, culture, and compliance.
Risk Mitigation: Draft and review comprehensive workplace policies, post-employment restraints, and settlement agreements.
Client Partnership: Build and nurture deep, consultative relationships with HR Directors, Executives, and In-House Counsel.
About You
Experience: 2–4 years of Post-Admission Experience (PQE) specializing in employment and workplace relations law.
Background: A proven track record within an Australian private practice environment is essential.
Dual-Stream Capability: Demonstrated experience handling both advisory and litigation files within the employment sphere, with a strong desire to maintain a mixed practice.
Technical Excellence: Legally astute with a deep understanding of the Fair Work Act and modern award frameworks, backed by exceptional drafting and negotiation skills.
Attributes: A confident, collaborative communicator who possesses the emotional intelligence required to handle sensitive workplace matters with absolute discretion.
The Environment & Benefits This boutique firm offers a distinct alternative to the rigid, heavily segmented structures of traditional top-tier practices.
True Specialization: Move beyond a generalist commercial model and imbed yourself in a firm where workplace relations is the core business, not an afterthought.
Elite Mentorship: Benefit from direct, day-to-day collaboration and mentorship from one of Australia's most prominent workplace strategists, accelerating your technical and commercial development.
Progressive Culture: Join a highly collaborative, sophisticated team that values innovation, intellectual curiosity, and a collegiate workplace environment.
Career Trajectory: Enjoy transparent, merit-based career progression with active support to build your professional brand and network within the Sydney market.
To Apply If you are a driven employment lawyer looking to elevate your practice within an elite specialist firm, please reach out to us for a strictly confidential discussion.
