In-House Employment Counsel

H&P are working with a large chemical company in Munich who are looking for an in-house employment counsel. The company can offer a 2 year contract with the possibility to extend. They offer a part-time option of up to 70%, as well as a hybrid working option, allowing for flexibility. The position requires very good English and German skills, and non-German qualified attorneys are welcomed too with the salary being competitive for an in-house role.

Qualifications:

• Ideally 2-4 years of employment and labour law experience in several European member states, including detailed knowledge and experience of German Labour and Employment law.

Preferably time spent both with a leading law firm or in-house with a large multinational corporation, that includes:

• International “hands-on” labour & employment legal experience, including experience of handling cross-border matters and projects in foreign jurisdictions;
• Experience in handling commercial matters & projects preferred;
• First experience and success in working with senior management in international environments;
• Superior advocacy skills, including the ability to effectively and efficiently communicate in writing and orally, an aptitude for practical negotiation, the capability to think clearly and quickly under pressure, and the composure to satisfy multiple and often competing interests.
• A strong commitment to integrity and professionalism, and passion for excellence.
• A work history that affirmatively demonstrates leadership, and ability to persuade and push others to deliver on commitments.
• Demonstrable fluency in English and German, including ability to draft and negotiate and present legal and business documents. Additional language capabilities would also be an advantage.
• Superior negotiating skills and ability to work in complex international environment, substantial experience working in different cultures and an open and tolerant mind.
• Demonstrable computer literacy with specific ability to use Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, Excel
• Project management and prioritization skills
• Record of dedicated and successful teamwork, excellent interpersonal and diplomatic abilities.

Responsibilities:

• Offer strategic legal guidance on European labour and employment matters.
• Support cross-border employment issues, including restructuring, outsourcing, redundancies, and litigation.
• Advise on employee relations, disciplinary actions, grievances, and terminations, including negotiation of senior-level separation agreements.
• Assist in M&A, compliance initiatives, and corporate legal projects.
• Collaborate with HR teams across Europe and liaise with corporate headquarters in the US.
• Oversee external counsel engagements, ensuring cost-effectiveness and high-quality service.
• Develop and deliver training for HR and business teams on employment law topics.
• Stay updated on employment law developments across Europe.

If you would like more information on the role, or are interested, drop me an email on smamtora@hpexec.com