Work Synopsis
Vanessa studied at Southampton University and BPP Law School before qualifying as a Solicitor in a City firm in 2007. She joined Prettys from London in 2014 as a Solicitor in the Employment Services Team, becoming an Associate in 2015, a Senior Associate in 2017 and Partner and Head of Employment in 2019.
Vanessa advises public and private sector clients on the full range of employment related issues, including grievances, disciplinary and performance management issues, redundancies and business reorganisations, TUPE, workplace investigations, defending complex Employment Tribunal claims and other policies and procedures. She regularly undertakes training for clients’ managers and HR teams. Vanessa has particular experience in conducting workplace investigations for large organisations.
Recent Work
- Defending a large logistics company against multiple and complex holiday pay and trade Union claims which went to the Employment Appeal Tribunal and the potential liabilities of the claims were around £150k
- Advising a retailer on facilitating the exit of two very senior directors
- Advising a large contractor in relation to TUPE, including guidance on obligations under TUPE, negotiation tactics in terms of contractual arrangements and accompanying practical advice
- Conducting a detailed investigation for a public sector client into alleged protected disclosures raised by an employee
Expertise
- Human Resources
- Investigations
- Data protection
- Tribunal claims
- Training
Personal Synopsis
Vanessa's weekends are spent enjoying time with her young family who keep her very active and busy, completing a house renovation project which appears never-ending and trying new recipes in the kitchen with some success. One day, she will find time to pursue her hobby of cycling again.
