Steele Charles are delighted to be exclusively retained on behalf of a highly regarded independent investment platform in Edinburgh on this, a strategic appointment of a Solicitor (2+ years PQE) into their in-house legal team.
Our client operates within a complex, regulated investment environment and is seeking a commercially astute solicitor to support fund structuring, regulatory oversight, and business growth initiatives.
The successful individual will work closely with senior leadership, reporting directly into an exceptional director of legal; influencing decision-making while maintaining strong regulatory discipline across the platform.
This opportunity will suit a technically strong funds or financial services lawyer who wants to step into a broader, commercially integrated in-house position.
The Role
Strategic Legal Advisory
Provide clear, risk-aware advice aligned to the company's long-term growth strategy, reducing reliance on external counsel.
Fund Structuring & Oversight
Advise on the structuring, launch, and ongoing management of fund vehicles including AIFs, - UCITS, and alternative structures.
Draft and negotiate IMAs, side letters, and core fund documentation.
Commercial & Operational Contracts
Lead on drafting and negotiating service agreements, technology contracts, supplier arrangements, and trading documentation.
Regulatory Frameworks
Advise across AIFMD, UCITS, MiFID II and related UK and international regulatory requirements.
Governance & Regulatory Change
Support board governance, oversight committees, and regulatory reporting.
Play a key role in regulatory change and business transformation projects.
Candidate Profile
This role is open to high-quality solicitors from a range of commercial and financial services backgrounds. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong core legal capability, sound commercial judgment, and the confidence to operate independently within a regulated environment.
Essential Experience & Attributes
Qualified solicitor with a minimum of 2 years' PQE.
Strong commercial proficiency, with experience advising clients in a private practice environment.
Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and deliver clear, pragmatic legal advice.
Comfortable engaging directly with senior stakeholders, explaining legal and regulatory issues in a commercial and accessible way.
A solution-focused mindset, balancing legal risk with business objectives.
High attention to detail combined with the ability to take a proportionate, commercial view.
These fundamentals are more important than sector specialism. We are looking for someone with strong legal judgement and the confidence to step into an in-house role and add value quickly.
Preferred (But Not Essential) Experience
Exposure to investment management, funds, financial services, or regulated environments.
Experience advising on or supporting fund structures, investment products, or asset management businesses.
Familiarity with regulatory frameworks such as AIFMD, UCITS, MiFID II, or similar regimes.
Experience drafting or negotiating fund documentation, IMAs, or complex commercial contracts.
Previous interaction with regulators, governance forums, or compliance teams.
Candidates without direct funds or regulatory experience will still be considered, provided they demonstrate strong commercial capability, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to upskill quickly.
Professional Approach
Comfortable reducing reliance on external counsel over time.
Proactive, organised, and able to take ownership of matters end-to-end.
Adaptable and resilient, with the ability to operate effectively through regulatory change and business growth.
This search is being managed on a confidential, retained basis. Please apply directly or get in touch for a confidential conversation.