Employment Department

What the team is known for Pre-eminent firm acting for UK-based and international employers across a range of contentious and non-contentious employment matters. Areas of strength include executive terminations, business immigration and the employment aspects of corporate transactions. Expertise handling high-profile whistle-blowing claims and handling the associated regulatory and reputational issues. A deep bench of experienced practitioners with recognised expertise in the education, energy and retail sectors.

Strengths A client describes the team as "very efficient, extremely experienced and friendly," adding: "They build strong personal relationships."

Another client says they are "experienced, flexible and supportive."

Work highlights Advised United Utilities, a large regional water company, on alterations to its pension scheme, against the backdrop of strident trade union opposition.

Notable practitioners

Diane Gilhooley advises universities on challenging restructuring exercises and sensitive contentious matters. A client says: "She is always quick to 'get' what it is we need, and she really goes in to bat for us."

Michael Burns is particularly known for his expertise in TUPE, National Minimum Wage investigations, restrictive covenants and the intersection of data privacy rules and employee rights. One client remarks on his "very good judgement."

Michael Thompson is well versed across a broad range of employment law, and is particularly expert with regard to executive terminations, restrictive covenants and restructuring exercises. He is described by one client as "extremely responsive, supportive and very capable."

Naeema Choudry is described by one market source as "a great lawyer." She is the firm's national lead on discrimination cases, and is a seasoned handler of executive exit work and other sensitive and contentious scenarios.