Counsel, Real Estate Debt

Counsel, Real Estate Debt

London Full-Time 43200 - 72000 Β£ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Provide legal support for real estate debt transactions and negotiate key documents.
  • Company: Join Ares Management, a leading global investment manager with a diverse portfolio.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative culture, flexible working options, and opportunities for career growth.
  • Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving impactful real estate financing across Europe.
  • Qualifications: 5+ years in banking or real estate finance law; strong negotiation skills required.
  • Other info: Applications accepted on an ongoing basis; no set deadline.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 Β£ per year.

Description

Summary:

We are currently seeking a candidate for the position of Legal Counsel (Real Estate Debt) within our Real Estate Group. The candidate will need to demonstrate a strong background in providing legal advice and transaction support in the commercial real estate lending market including all aspects of structuring and executing CRE credit transactions across Europe.

Primary Functions and Essential Responsibilities

Overall responsibility for internal legal support for Real Estate Debt & Opportunistic Credit transactions:

  • Supporting deal teams with internal review of term sheets and advising on any legal escalations by outside counsel
  • Assisting with negotiation of legal aspects of term sheets
  • Advising on deal structuring (including with respect to security arrangements and enforcement) together with internal and external tax advisors and outside counsel
  • Supervision of legal aspects of deal execution, management and oversight of outside counsel, internal review of, and advice on, issues lists and long form key transaction documents (including engagement letters, facility agreements, equity commitment letters, and indemnity letters)
  • Back Leverage (i.e., repo and loan on loan arrangements):

  • Internal legal review of issues lists
  • Management and oversight of outside counsel for each back leverage arrangement, and advising on any legal escalations by outside counsel relating thereto
  • Review of key legal documents, including back leverage loan agreement provisions, confirmation statement, Exceptions Report and DDQs when adding assets to a line
  • Assisting with legal negotiation and closing of back leverage arrangements
  • Asset Management:

  • Organising loan summaries at time of closing with outside counsel including all key terms as well as consent mechanics with back leverage providers
  • Advising deal teams on the above in the case of changes needing to be made to loans and assist with documentation process
  • Other:

  • Supporting Legal & Compliance colleagues on the identification, management and resolution of areas of house risk, including potential conflict issues, compliance and other regulatory considerations
  • Supporting Legal colleagues on fund / account structuring matters and working with Luxembourg governance colleagues on operational and company secretarial requirements related to investment and fund structures
  • Supporting deal teams on the legal elements / overviews in IC and screening memos particularly in respect of bespoke risks or structuring points, where applicable
  • Interacting with investors and other internal and external stakeholders on general queries relating to existing transactions and portfolios of the Real Estate Debt Group
  • Education:

  • BA or Master’s Degree and Legal Qualification
  • Experience Required:

  • 5+years of experience as a banking / real estate finance lawyer either in a top tier law firm or as in house counsel
  • Prior experience in CRE lending is required, with a focus on negotiating transaction documents as well as coordinating closing processes
  • Knowledge of structuring and executing back leverage (i.e., repo or loan on loan) facilities is a plus
  • General Requirements:

  • High level of expertise in CRE loan structuring with cross jurisdictional, preferably pan-European experience
  • Experience negotiating all documentation pertaining to CRE lending including loan agreements, security documentation and all ancillary documents
  • Strong organisational and time management skills
  • Confidence to challenge and test outside counsel legal advice, including taking into account internal legal and compliance considerations and house risks / positions
  • Engage with and collaborate on internal knowledge building and internal legal process and deal execution initiatives
  • Demonstrated track record in successfully managing execution processes under time pressure with a focus on delivering within strict deadlines
  • Must possess strong integrity and professionalism
  • Must be a self-starter who can function independently
  • Reporting Relationships

    Head of European Real Estate Debt

    There is no set deadline to apply for this job opportunity. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the search is no longer active.

    Counsel, Real Estate Debt employer: Ares Management Corporation

    Ares Management Corporation is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment in the heart of London. With a strong commitment to employee development and collaboration, we empower our team members to thrive in their careers while contributing to meaningful projects in the real estate sector. Our culture is built on core values that promote integrity, responsibility, and entrepreneurial spirit, making Ares a rewarding place to grow professionally and personally.
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    Contact Detail:

    Ares Management Corporation Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🀫

    We think this is how you could land Counsel, Real Estate Debt

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Network with professionals in the real estate finance sector. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with individuals who work at Ares or similar firms. Building these relationships can provide you with insider knowledge and potentially a referral.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and regulations in commercial real estate lending. Being well-versed in current market conditions and legal frameworks will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment and expertise during interviews.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Prepare to discuss specific examples of your experience in negotiating transaction documents and managing execution processes. Highlighting your past successes in similar roles will help you stand out as a strong candidate for the Counsel position.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Research Ares Management's core values and culture. Tailor your conversations and responses to reflect how your personal values align with theirs, particularly focusing on collaboration, responsibility, and integrity, which are key to their organisational ethos.

    We think you need these skills to ace Counsel, Real Estate Debt

    Legal Expertise in Real Estate Finance
    Commercial Real Estate Lending Knowledge
    Transaction Document Negotiation
    Cross-Jurisdictional Legal Experience
    Back Leverage Structuring Knowledge
    Strong Organisational Skills
    Time Management Skills
    Ability to Challenge Legal Advice
    Collaboration and Teamwork
    Risk Management and Compliance Awareness
    Self-Starter with Independent Functioning
    Professional Integrity
    Experience in Fund/Account Structuring
    Stakeholder Engagement

    Some tips for your application 🫑

    Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in real estate finance and legal counsel. Focus on your achievements in negotiating transaction documents and managing execution processes, as these are key aspects of the role.

    Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the position and the company. Mention specific experiences that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, such as your expertise in CRE lending and back leverage arrangements.

    Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your educational background and legal qualifications. Emphasise any additional certifications or training related to real estate law or finance that could set you apart from other candidates.

    Showcase Soft Skills: The role requires strong organisational skills and the ability to work under pressure. Provide examples in your application that demonstrate your time management abilities and how you've successfully navigated challenging situations in previous roles.

    How to prepare for a job interview at Ares Management Corporation

    ✨Understand the Role Thoroughly

    Before the interview, make sure to read the job description carefully. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and requirements of the Counsel position in Real Estate Debt. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their needs.

    ✨Showcase Relevant Experience

    Prepare specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your expertise in commercial real estate lending and transaction support. Highlight your experience in negotiating legal documents and managing execution processes under pressure.

    ✨Demonstrate Cultural Fit

    Ares values collaboration, responsibility, and trustworthiness. Be ready to discuss how you embody these values in your work. Share experiences where you worked effectively in a team or took initiative to solve problems.

    ✨Prepare Questions for Them

    Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare insightful questions about the company culture, team dynamics, and expectations for the role. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.

    Counsel, Real Estate Debt
    Ares Management Corporation
    Location: London
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