Paul Hayward

Legal Director | Reading

Paul Hayward Photo

Paul is an experienced Legal Director, ranked within the legal directories as “an accomplished litigator” (Legal 500 2021) along with “rising star” and “associate to watch” for the last two years (2021 & 2022), with 15 years’ experience in employment law.

His experience ranges from acting for large multi corporates and educational institutions to senior executives and individuals, across a plethora of non-contentious and contentious issues, often involving discrimination or public interest disclosures. In addition, Paul is accustomed (and praised) for adding value with strategic support for employers across proposals, such as moving a workforce to hybrid working, to undertaking and determining complex and sensitive grievances.

He has been particularly successful within Tribunal, recently notably achieving aggravated damages on two separate occasions in multi-issue discrimination claims, with one claim attracting national press, and having various claims of discrimination against an educational institution struck out at a preliminary hearing. Additionally, Paul is well versed within team moves and has a particular interest, with notable success, of High Court injunctions and damages claims.

Outside of Paul’s legal practice, he authored a number of articles for magazines such as People Management, and regularly presents seminars within the CIPD community, with an emphasis on collaboration and value. He is also a qualified Mental Health First Aider and regularly uses this experience to speak at seminars or presentations on wellbeing in the workplace.

What people say about Paul

Paul has always provided first class advice. He provides invaluable support to the business and my team. He goes over and above by ensuring not only that the case is handled correctly but that my own understanding is there”.

The Legal 500

Paul is an amazing lawyer who is incredibly user-friendly and cuts through the legal issues to provide the advice I need”.

 Chambers and Partners

Professional Memberships

  • Employment Lawyers Association
  • Chartered Institute of Professional Development (Committee member)
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