Counsel; APAC

Position: Employment Counsel (APAC)
About ERM

ERM (Environmental Resources Management) is a leading global provider of environmental, health, safety, risk, and social consulting services. With operations in over 40 countries and a team of more than 8,000 professionals, ERM partners with clients to address sustainability challenges and deliver innovative solutions that create long-term value. Our work spans diverse industries, helping organizations manage risks, comply with regulations, and achieve their sustainability goals.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Employment Counsel based in India to provide pragmatic, risk-balanced legal advice on employment matters across the APAC region. Reporting directly to the Chief Litigation and Employment Counsel, based in Austin, Texas, this role will partner closely with HR and business stakeholders in multiple jurisdictions and requires strong technical expertise, excellent judgment, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Provide employment law advice across APAC jurisdictions, including India, Australia, China, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand.
Act as a trusted advisor to HR and business leaders on matters such as:
Hiring and recruiting
Contingent worker arrangements
Labor relations and investigations
Performance management, discipline, and termination
Redundancies and restructuring plans
Leaves of absence and disability accommodations
Flexible working requests
Pay practices, compensation, and benefits (including sales compensation and bonus programs)
Restrictive covenants and protection of confidential information
Manage pre-litigation employment disputes with minimal external spend, including investigating claims, negotiating resolutions, and drafting separation and settlement agreements.
Monitor legal developments across APAC jurisdictions and translate regulatory changes into actionable guidance for HR and business stakeholders.
Draft employee-facing policies, handbooks, and other resources.
Prepare and deliver training sessions on employment law topics.
Support M&A transactions by conducting employment-related due diligence, identifying risks, and advising on workforce integration.
Establish and maintain credibility and trust with internal clients, legal team members, and other partners.

Qualifications And Experience

Qualified attorney with a minimum of 6+ years of post-qualification experience in employment law (preferred 8
-12 years)
Ability and willingness to continue to learn and understand new law and industry practices.
Experience counseling on employment matters in India and Australia (preferred).
Prior employment law practice at a regional or international law firm.
Excellent legal analysis, drafting, negotiation, and organizational skills.
Proven experience supporting business operations across multiple locations and managing multi-jurisdictional projects.
Demonstrated ability to provide advice directly to clients and influence decision-making.
Strong work ethic and the highest level of integrity and business ethics.
Exceptional attention to detail and sound judgment, including knowing when to escalate matters to legal leadership.

Skills And Attributes

Native or business-level in English and Hindi proficiency (speaking, listening, and writing).
Willingness and ability to work a flexible schedule based on business needs.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to deliver pragmatic, business-oriented solutions under tight timelines.