Partner, Employment - Detroit

Partner – Labor & Employment

Private Practice | Mid-Sized Business Law Firm

Our client, a forward-thinking business law firm founded by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs, is seeking an experienced Labor & Employment Partner to join their growing team. This firm provides an alternative to Big Law—offering national-caliber matters in a flexible, collaborative environment that champions autonomy, innovation, and meaningful relationships.

With a proven reputation for delivering sophisticated, business-aligned legal counsel, the firm is expanding its Employment practice and looking for a strategic-minded Partner who thrives in a culture where client goals, practical judgment, and entrepreneurial drive intersect.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and grow the firm's Labor & Employment practice across counseling, litigation, and compliance matters.
• Advise mid-sized to emerging-growth businesses, executives, and investors on employment-related strategy, investigations, and risk mitigation.
• Handle a wide range of matters including:
• Discrimination, harassment, and retaliation claims
• Wage and hour issues (FLSA, state wage laws)
• Employment contracts and executive compensation
• Restrictive covenants and trade secret disputes
• Internal investigations and workforce restructurings
• Labor union issues and NLRB proceedings
• Collaborate across practice areas (Corporate, M&A, Litigation) to provide integrated, client-centric solutions.
• Contribute to thought leadership, mentor junior attorneys, and support practice development initiatives.

Ideal Candidate

• 10+ years of focused Labor & Employment law experience, preferably at an Am Law or reputable boutique firm.
• Strong litigation, counseling, and negotiation experience in both state and federal matters.
• Portable book of business ($500K+ preferred) with a proven record of growing and maintaining client relationships.
• Thoughtful communicator with commercial awareness and a practical, problem-solving mindset.
• Entrepreneurial spirit with a collaborative approach to cross-practice engagement.
• Commitment to mentorship, community involvement, and fostering a culture of inclusion.

Why This Firm

• Business-Oriented Legal Culture – Work alongside former general counsel, operators, and founders who understand business from the inside out.
• Agile and Collaborative – Attorneys are empowered to shape their practice and encouraged to work across disciplines for client success.
• Sophisticated Work Without Big Law Red Tape – Handle high-impact matters with mid-market agility.
• Genuine Commitment to Inclusion and Purpose – Active in DEI, pro bono work, and community outreach, with numerous philanthropic initiatives.
• High-Trust Environment – Transparent compensation model, realistic origination expectations, and entrepreneurial flexibility.