We are seeking a talented Pensions Solicitor (c.2-4 PQE) to join JMW’s Employment department in our Manchester office.

The Department

Our specialist Employment law team in Manchester provide expert advice to both businesses and individuals on all areas of employment law as it constantly evolves. There is very little - if anything - relating to employment law that we haven't dealt with, which is why our clients find we are the ideal law firm to have in their corner.

As part of its ongoing development, the Employment team has recently added pensions advisory expertise. Employment and pensions are, typically, closely related areas of law at the workplace and the decision to provide pensions advisory work adds value to the team’s client offering.

The make-up of this new client base for the firm is spread across private individuals, employers, and pension scheme trustees, demonstrating the breadth of the appeal of offering pensions advisory work. In addition, the new offering has benefitted JMW’s Corporate and Commercial teams as part of their transactional work, as well as offering a wider range of advice for the Family and Personal Injury teams.

We advise on all aspects of pensions law, specialising particularly in relation to scheme mergers, solvent restructuring, buy-ins/buyouts, pension issues on corporate transactions, as well as member complaints and grievances.

The Opportunity

In this newly established role, you will work closely with our firm's Partner specialising in pensions, who brings nearly thirty years of experience and a reputation for providing pragmatic, solutions-focused advice. You will have the opportunity and support to learn and progress in your career while assisting across a range of pension issues and contributing to our clients' success and satisfaction.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Drafting, interpreting and advising on pension scheme documents.
• Advising pensions legislation.
• Attending client meetings.
• Providing support to the pensions Partner, including minute-taking and task noting.
• Drafting straight forward deeds and other relevant documents.
• Staying informed of changes in legislation and Pensions Regulator guidance.
• Liaising with third-party referrers.
• Translating complex legal language into understandable terms.
• Engaging in business development activities to support department growth.

Hybrid working is available.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• C.2-4 years' post qualification experience (PQE).
• Strong people skills with a talent for building rapport and maintaining relationships with clients.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to translate complex pensions language into plain English.
• Enthusiasm for business development initiatives.
• Experience working with third-party referrers would be beneficial.

Working for JMW 

As well as a rewarding career, JMW offer staff many other opportunities and benefits, including:

• A minimum of 25 days' annual leave (increasing with length of service) plus office closure between Christmas and New Year
• A one-hour early finish, one Friday a month
• Two days a year to do charitable work
• The option to get involved in sports teams, hobby clubs, and social events
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme and trained Mental Health First Aiders
• Annual promotions process open to all staff

More information about our benefits and company culture can be found on the careers home page.