Overview
A leading software development organization is seeking a Senior Legal Counsel specializing in Employment Law to be based in Germany. This role provides expert legal support on German employment law and contributes to employment-related matters across the organization's global operations.
Responsibilities
- Act as a trusted advisor to HR on sensitive and complex employee matters, offering strategic guidance that considers legal requirements, organizational context, and reputational factors.
- Provide strategic legal support and pragmatic counsel primarily focused on German labor law, while supporting broader employment law issues across global operations.
- Manage a wide range of employee matters, including complex and sensitive cases in Germany, and assist with employment issues in other jurisdictions by developing legal strategies, reviewing documentation, and supporting business decisions.
- Assess and respond to complex internal communications and reports, aiding in the development of balanced strategies aligned with legal and organizational considerations.
- Draft, review, and continuously improve employment agreements, contractor agreements, and HR-related templates and policies tailored to Germany and other relevant jurisdictions.
- Conduct in-depth, group-wide analyses on employment and labor law topics and lead or contribute to cross-functional projects, including harmonizing employment policies and documentation across countries.
- Serve as a senior advisor to HR teams on employment practices and workplace policies, including remote work, employee benefits, disciplinary procedures, and workplace safety, particularly for German entities.
- Lead legal support related to employee representation structures in Germany, advising on their operations and management interactions in compliance with local legislation and best practices.
- Stay updated on legislative changes in German labor law and provide legal training and knowledge-sharing sessions to internal stakeholders, especially HR and management.
- Represent the organization in communications with German regulatory and government bodies on employment-related matters.
- Collaborate with legal colleagues globally on projects and issues intersecting with employment and labor law.
Requirements
- Fluency in German and English, both written and spoken.
- Law degree with excellent academic credentials; German bar admission is an advantage.
- Senior-level post-qualification experience in employment and labor law, typically 6+ years, with demonstrated hands-on experience in employment dispute resolution.
- Experience in both in-house legal roles and reputable international law firms is advantageous.
- In-depth knowledge of German employment law, with practical experience advising on complex workplace matters, procedures, and employee representation structures.
- Ability to provide clear, solutions-oriented guidance in complex or evolving legal contexts.
- Proven ability to assess sensitive employee-related matters, identify key issues, and develop effective legal and communication strategies.
- Excellent skills in legal drafting, negotiation, dispute resolution, and managing emotionally sensitive employee situations.
- Proactive, collaborative, pragmatic, and adaptable approach with strong interpersonal skills and business awareness.
- Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, international environment with multiple stakeholders and shifting priorities.
- Willingness to support employment law matters in other countries with assistance from external counsel and internal legal colleagues.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary reflecting skills and experience.
- Flexible work location with the option to work from home or office.
- Up to 30 days per year remote work from abroad.
- Additional time off for relaxation and personal activities.
- Medical insurance allowance for employees and their families.
- Access to learning and development opportunities including conferences, courses, and language classes.
- Relocation support to facilitate a smooth transition.
- Language classes to improve local language or English skills.
- Meal benefits including hot meals or lunch allowances on workdays.
- Mental health support with access to professional services.
- Sports benefits such as on-site gym access or sports club stipends.
- Participation in internal events and company-wide celebrations.
Note: Some benefits may vary depending on location.
Location
This position is based in Germany.