The Opportunity
An internationally renowned law firm is seeking Financial Sponsor Associates (3-6 PQE) to join its highly successful Corporate team in London. This is a rare opportunity to work on market-leading financial sponsor transactions across the UK, Europe, and globally.
The Financial Sponsor team plays an integral role in the firm’s M&A success. With multiple awards, including “Private Equity Group of the Year”, this is a dynamic and fast-growing practice that offers outstanding career progression.
The Role
As a Financial Sponsor Associate, you will:
* Advise on all stages of the downstream investment cycle, including:
* Management incentive plans and leaver terms.
* Financings and refinancings.
* Bolt-on investments, recaps, restructurings, and exits.
* Draft and negotiate:
* Locked box and completion accounts SPAs.
* Management incentive documents.
* Shareholders’ agreements, NDAs, and engagement letters.
* Disclosure letters, diligence reports, and ancillary documents.
* Lead on the structuring and execution of complex financial sponsor transactions.
* Review and comment on funds flows.
* Work directly with partners, counsel, and clients on sophisticated deals.
* Supervise and mentor junior colleagues, contributing to their development.
Key Requirements:
* 3-6 years’ PQE in financial sponsor transactions.
* Experience in a top-tier London or common law firm (or equivalent jurisdiction).
* Strong expertise in:
* Drafting and negotiating SPAs (locked box and completion accounts).
* Management incentive plans and leaver terms.
* Shareholders’ agreements and financial sponsor structuring.
* Proven ability to lead on deals, manage client relationships, and supervise juniors.
* Excellent drafting, communication, and analytical skills.
* A strong academic background with a commercial mindset.
* A proactive approach to marketing, knowhow, and pro-bono initiatives.
Why Join?
* Elite, award-winning firm with a market-leading Financial Sponsor practice.
* Work on high-profile, cross-border deals with exposure to sophisticated clients.
* Direct client contact, with opportunities to lead on complex transactions.
* Hybrid working model (Monday-Thursday in the office).
* Real-time partner feedback.
* Mentoring and career development support.
* Comprehensive training programme, including:
* Weekly and monthly seminars and workshops led by partners, KC’s, and industry experts.
* Regular corporate know-how and team meetings.
* Live video links to seminars across the firm’s global offices.
* Highly competitive remuneration and benefits package, including:
* Discretionary year-end bonus and generous base salary.
* Technology and gym allowance.
* Private medical insurance and life assurance.
* Enhanced family leave and flexible hybrid working.
* 22 days holiday + 3 personal days.
* Interest-free season ticket loan.