At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to work on high-profile projects across the Middle East.
- Company: Leading international law firm with a rapidly expanding office in Riyadh.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, early responsibility, and opportunities for travel.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with exposure to senior partners and landmark projects.
- Why this job: Be part of a brand-new platform and shape its long-term identity.
- Qualifications: Strong background in projects or project finance; Arabic speakers preferred.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
A leading international law firm is seeking to appoint a Projects or Project Finance Associate to join its rapidly expanding Riyadh office. This is an exceptionally rare opportunity to join a brand-new platform at a formative stage. The office only opened in June and is currently led by three highly respected partners with four associates and one counsel, working in close collaboration with the firm’s established Dubai hub. This is an ideal moment for an ambitious projects lawyer to become part of a growing regional team with exposure across the Middle East.
The successful candidate will have the chance to work directly with senior partners in both Riyadh and Dubai, including the firm’s projects leadership, gaining hands-on experience on some of the most high-profile energy, infrastructure, transport and social development projects in the region. The work will include a broad blend of project development, project finance and advisory mandates. Associates will regularly work with the projects partner in Dubai, alongside two experienced associates, with frequent collaboration across offices and opportunities for travel.
The projects practice advises governments, major regional developers, international sponsors, ECAs, banks and investors on landmark projects that are shaping the Gulf’s economic transformation. The team handles the full spectrum of work: from early-stage development and structuring, to drafting and negotiating EPC, O&M, concession and shareholder agreements, through to complex multi-source financings, refinancing's and long-term project support.
For those from the project finance side, the role offers an opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of underlying project documents and support financings across energy, water, renewables, transport, PPPs and giga-projects. For those from the developer or construction side, the role offers a path to broaden into the financing aspects of major projects.
Because the Saudi market is growing at exceptional pace, this role provides genuine influence, early responsibility and the chance to help define the office’s long-term identity. The firm is flexible on background and open to candidates who may have come from in-house teams, provided they have strong grounding in projects and ideally some international law firm exposure. Being in the region already is important, as the team is looking for individuals who understand the local landscape and can integrate quickly. Arabic speakers and Saudi nationals are especially encouraged to apply, but the team remains open to strong regional candidates regardless of nationality.
- Strong background in projects or project finance, whether developer-side or finance-side.
- Saudi nationals with projects experience are particularly encouraged to apply.
- Candidates fluent in Arabic, even if not Saudi nationals, are also highly valued.
- Strong regional candidates who may not speak Arabic will still be considered if they bring robust projects expertise.
- Familiarity with key project documentation (EPCs, PPAs, concessions, shareholder agreements, financing documents, etc.)
- International law firm experience preferred; in-house experience is welcome, especially where combined with prior private practice training.
- Ambitious, collaborative individuals who are motivated to help build and shape a growing office.
Riyadh-based role with regular cross-office work and travel to Dubai.
Project finance lawyer in City of London employer: Buchanan
Join a pioneering international law firm in Riyadh, where you will be part of a dynamic and rapidly expanding team. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and professional growth, this role offers the unique opportunity to work alongside esteemed partners on high-profile projects that are transforming the region. The firm fosters a supportive work culture, encouraging ambitious individuals to take on early responsibilities and shape the future of the office while enjoying the benefits of cross-office collaboration and travel.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project finance lawyer in City of London
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Buchanan, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Project finance lawyer in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Buchanan, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Buchanan and the specific role of Project finance lawyer. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Buchanan’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Buchanan
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Buchanan.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Buchanan.
