Senior Corporate Counsel - Employment, UK & International

Reporting to CDW's Vice President and Assistant General Counsel, Employment, Ethics & Compliance, the Senior Corporate Counsel Employment will be responsible for providing business-focused ongoing advice and counsel to Coworker Success (CWS), CDW's human resources function, with respect to a broad array of employment matters. in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment. This role will provide support for coworkers in the UK and CDW's other international locations, excluding Canada and U.S., The Senior Corporate Counsel Employment will:

• Proactively engage with CWS and business unit leaders to identify appropriate stakeholders, develop effective working relationships and function as a trusted advisor to the business. This includes understanding the nature of their business, priorities and challenges. Act as a thought leader on key projects and initiatives across CDW and the groups supported.


• Work closely and partner with CWS with respect to a variety of employment-related issues. Provide pragmatic advice and guidance that aligns with CDW's strategic objectives, risk tolerance and the principles set forth in CDW's value statement, the CDW Way. Provide employment law support to acquisition, integration, divestiture and similar transactions as required.


• Drive and direct global (excluding Canada and U.S.) projects, measures and best practices for CDW's compliance with relevant labor and employment laws and regulations. This shall include drafting, implementing and interpreting CDW policies, procedures and handbooks, as well as developing and delivering training across the organization.


• Be focused and proactive in tracking relevant laws and regulations in covered international jurisdictions and regularly update CWS and other appropriate departments with regard to new legislation and agency initiatives. Identify trends and plan for risks in the employment area. Support and advise on compensation matters including classification and pay equity issues and bonus/commission plans.


• In conjunction with CDW's inhouse litigation attorneys, manage outside counsel with regard to employment litigation, including consultation with outside counsel regarding strategy and facts, reviewing all court/agency filings, and managing discovery processes.



• Carefully balance displaying the confidence to reason through a situation and make independent decisions, while appropriately keeping stakeholders apprised. Commit to a path of action and working through it with needed flexibility and agility in order to render prompt advice and guidance. Effectively manage workload through appropriate prioritization, organization, and time management. Act with a sense of urgency, maintaining a pace that is consistent with the needs of the business and aligned with the project/task scope and impact.


• 
  
• Partner on an ongoing basis with other members of the Legal Department staff in executing the responsibilities of the position. Serve as a resource to the Legal Department on international employment law issues. Participate as a full member of the corporate Legal Department staff.


Travel periodically, as needed.


• Qualified and admitted to practice in the UK, with 7+ years post qualification experience specializing in employment law. Proven success in partnering with and effectively counseling clients on a wide array of employment law-related issues.


• Experience representing multinational clients in international employment matters. Experience working with employment issues related to sales and technology solutions is preferred.


• Ability to work autonomously, issue spot and provide incisive, practical and business-focused employment advice and counsel. Creativity and resourcefulness. Strong problem-solving skills with a pragmatic orientation. Ability to balance strategic and tactical issues.


• Demonstrated leadership talent, with the ability to motivate, interface and build strong relationships with employees and cross-functional stakeholders at all levels. Proven ability to maintain discretion and confidentiality.


• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly and concisely articulate complex legal concepts to non-lawyers of all levels, including senior management.


• Strong project management experience and ability to balance competing priorities and adapt to the changing needs of the business and legal landscapes while meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.