Labor & Employment Partner

Job Overview:
A leading law firm is seeking an experienced Labor & Employment Partner to join its Chicago office. The ideal candidate will bring a portable practice of at least $1 million and have extensive experience advising clients on employment law matters. This role offers an excellent opportunity for a senior attorney to manage complex labor and employment cases, lead strategic counseling, and drive business development initiatives. The firm is known for its top-tier culture, work environment, and comprehensive support for professional growth.

Location:
Chicago, IL

Duties:

• Lead and manage complex labor and employment matters, providing strategic legal advice and representation to clients.
• Represent clients in employment-related litigation and matters before the Department of Labor (DOL), National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), and other administrative agencies.
• Advise employers on a broad range of issues including federal, state, and local employment laws, discrimination, wage and hour compliance, restrictive covenants, executive employment agreements, and employment policies.
• Collaborate with deal teams on employment due diligence, negotiation of purchase agreements, and other employment-related ancillary deal documents.
• Provide high-quality legal work and communicate effectively with clients and colleagues.
• Demonstrate critical thinking and a strong passion for providing solutions in the client sector.
• Exhibit creative, responsive, and efficient work habits while continuously improving professional skills.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, actively contributing to business development.
• Network with existing clients to identify and cultivate new business opportunities.

Requirements:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience practicing labor and employment law with a portable practice of at least $1 million.
• Strong background in advising clients across various industries, including private equity, technology, life sciences, and manufacturing.
• Proven track record of managing complex labor and employment matters successfully.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks, prioritize efficiently, and meet critical deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with excellent analytical, organizational, and written and verbal communication abilities.
• Must be licensed as an attorney in Illinois in good standing.
• Ability to travel as needed to meet client requirements.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school.

Certifications:

• Licensed to practice law in Illinois (or ability to waive into the state bar if licensed elsewhere).

Skills:

• Expertise in labor and employment law, with a focus on complex litigation and strategic counseling.
• Strong business acumen and the ability to identify and pursue new business opportunities.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency in negotiating employment-related agreements and managing client relationships.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with colleagues and clients.
• Proven track record of leading and mentoring junior associates.

Benefits:

• Competitive compensation based on experience and business brought into the firm.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Life and disability insurance.
• 401(k) plan with employer contributions.
• Generous paid parental leave.
• Open/flexible vacation policy.
• Student loan refinancing and consolidation services.
• Well-being programs and workstyle support.
• Dedicated integration support to assist with lateral transition.

The law firm is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. Area of concentration is business litigation. Patent litigation and securities arbitration are some of their notable practice disciplines. The legal practice staffs nineteen results-driven attorneys and a qualified support group. A team of competent paralegals are employed as well.