Our people

Rachel Hill

Partner, Employment
UAE and Saudi Arabia

Expertise

Rachel is a partner who leads our Employment practice in the UAE advising on all aspects of contentious and non-contentious employment law. Rachel has cemented her position as a leading regional litigator in respect of employment disputes before the UAE Labour Courts, a unique capability for a non-Arab native and excels in this area. Her exposure and longevity in the region (15 years) allows her to advise clients on the practical implications of the UAE Labour Law supported by case law and practical experience. Rachel provides strategic analysis and advice to employers on all aspects of Employment Law including termination, end of service entitlements, commission, and incentive entitlements, as well as breaches of non-compete and confidentiality obligations. Rachel has notable expertise in assisting with dismissals and workplace investigations arising from employee fraud.

Experience

Advising an athletic apparel and footwear corporation in respect of ad hoc employment advice including the drafting and reviewing of settlement documentation, advising in relation to termination of employees, change of terms and conditions of employment and other general employment advice.
Advising a financial, software, data, and media company in respect of all employment related issues arising in the UAE including advising on the recruitment and employment of individuals and related immigration advice, advising on HR policies and procedures, performance management, employee benefits, termination of employment and litigation risk.
Successfully defending a global conglomerate in respect of an employee claim before the Dubai Labour Court arises out of an employee stock Ownership Plan.
Successfully advised a leading international service provider to the energy industry on a multi-million-dirham contentious case filed before the local Dubai labour courts by an ex-employee after his mandated retirement during the pandemic. The case involved complex employment claims and addressed the crucial and controversial legal point 'pension v end of gratuity' for UAE National employees.
Advised a UAE Dubai government department on a highly sensitive employee displacement within its organization of a central member of staff who had not been performing and was behaving in an obstructive manner.

Recognition