Rachel Lester

Employment Solicitor
Rachel Lester, head of iLaw’s Employment Law practice, qualified as a solicitor in January 1999 after completing her law degree at King’s College London. Specialising in employment law since September 2000, Rachel has amassed a wealth of experience both in private practice and in-house for Government. Her expertise spans the litigation of complex claims in the courts, the drafting of the full range of employment documentation, and the negotiation of settlements and exit packages, on behalf of both individuals and businesses. She is a member of the Employment Lawyers Association.

Notable achievements include the provision of strategic advice on the application of TUPE in high-profile acquisitions, the crafting of directors’ service agreements with intricate negotiations on compensation terms and restrictive covenants, and the management of the roll out of new employment contracts and staff handbooks. Rachel has assisted clients through redundancy consultations, and disciplinary and grievance processes, and has represented clients in concurrent High Court and Employment Tribunal proceedings, involving unfair prejudice petitions and unfair dismissal and whistleblowing claims.

Rachel is also proficient in advising on ‘protected conversations’, negotiating exit packages, and handling Employment Tribunal proceedings that involve complex jurisdictional arguments, such as those concerning embassies and state immunity. She is skilled in achieving resolutions through trial or negotiated settlement, and has also represented employees in disciplinary proceedings before regulatory bodies.

Beyond her professional endeavours, Rachel is passionate about travel, and enjoys cycling and singing with an amateur choir.