Corporate/M&A Associate (3-5 PQE)

An elite City law firm is seeking a high-calibre Corporate Associate to join its renowned team. The practice operates at the top of the market, delivering Magic Circle and US-level work while retaining the culture of a cohesive, one-office firm.

The Team

• A market-leading corporate team, ranked for its ability to handle both headline-making and mid-market M&A transactions without compromising on quality.
• 90+ fee earners, 18 partners – offering strength in depth and true breadth of work.
• Corporate mandates span public and private M&A, private equity, venture capital, equity capital markets and complex advisory mandates.
• A standout strength in advising boards and executives on governance, regulatory and strategic matters – with a strong commercial awareness and sector-specific insight.

Key Features

• High-end private M&A work with a growing volume of VC and ECM transactions.
• Balanced exposure acting for issuers, sponsors and shareholders – giving associates full-spectrum deal insight.
• Regular board-level instructions on corporate governance and regulatory matters.
• Genuine international scope, with over 70% of matters being cross-border.
• Lean deal teams and early responsibility – ideal for lawyers seeking meaningful partner interaction and hands-on development.

The Firm Culture

• A fast-paced and ambitious environment with a strong work ethic and a clear expectation of excellence.
• 1600 billable hours target – focused and achievable, allowing for client depth and personal development.
• Hybrid working policy – 3:2 office/home split.
• Single London office, promoting approachability and cross-practice collaboration.

Compensation

• Competitive salary
• Market-leading bonus structure with individual and firmwide performance elements.
• Clear and structured development pathways, including partnership and senior counsel routes.

Who Should Apply

We are keen to speak with lawyers who are:

• 3 to 5 PQE, with top-tier corporate experience from a recognised UK, US or international firm.
• Confident in leading on workstreams and liaising directly with clients and partners.
• Commercially astute, academically strong, and motivated by complex, high-value corporate work.
• Comfortable in a high-performance, collegiate culture where quality and rigour come first.

Interested in learning more?

This opportunity is being handled discreetly. For a confidential discussion, please get in touch.