At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dedicated ABS practice and shape its future with innovative projects.
- Company: Leading international law firm with a focus on structured finance.
- Benefits: Competitive US salary, hybrid work, extensive training, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with direct partner access and career growth potential.
- Why this job: Be part of a unique opportunity to specialise in ABS without CLO distractions.
- Qualifications: 2-6 PQE with strong ABS experience or a genuine desire to specialise.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Senior Associate / Associate - Structured Finance (ABS) | International Law Firm
A leading international law firm is building a genuinely rare opportunity: a brand-new, standalone ABS practice, created from the ground up by two dedicated ABS partners.
There's no CLO workload attached to this role, and no risk of being used as junior cover for a larger structured finance group.
For ABS specialists tired of being one of several associates rotated across CLO, ABL and ABS, this is worth a conversation.
Why This Role
This is a fully dedicated ABS practice, with no CLO crossover and no dilution of specialism.
The team is lean and purpose-built two partners, two associates, and one trainee meaning direct partner access from day one, rather than being buried several layers down in a large group.
With no fixed headcount ceiling, this is a genuine ground-floor opportunity to help shape the practice's precedents and market positioning as it grows.
The work spans a broad, cross-border range: consumer ABS, auto ABS, RMBS, trade receivables, and esoteric and cross-border European securitisations, with access to the firm's leading US securitisation platform.
Compensation follows a US salary scale, with merit-based rather than lockstep progression, and accelerated tracks available for strong performers.
This practice sits alongside but entirely separate from the firm's established CLO and broader structured finance team.
It's being built and resourced as its own standalone line, not as a feeder into CLO, with the long-term ambition of developing into a full-service structured finance platform.
Who they're looking for
The firm is targeting candidates at 2–6 PQE, ideally England & Wales qualified, though this isn't essential for exceptional candidates.
Strong ABS experience is preferred, but candidates with some ABS exposure and a genuine desire to specialise will also be considered.
Ideal candidates are currently at a US firm, a Magic Circle or Silver Circle firm, or another strong ABS platform, and are genuinely committed to ABS as a long-term specialism rather than viewing it as a stepping stone into CLO.
Culture and Benefits
The role offers a busy but well-supported workload, particularly through autumn, with hours pitched somewhere between Magic Circle and firms like Latham.
It comes with 1,950 bonus-eligible hours, a dedicated resourcing manager, and over 300 hours of training annually.
Working is hybrid, with three days in the office and Wednesday as the anchor day.
On the wellbeing side, there's a £500 annual allowance, a mental health platform, fertility support, and 26 weeks of paid primary parental leave.
Interested, or want to know more in complete confidence? Get in touch directly or send a CV.
Structured Finance Associate in Slough employer: Buchanan
Buchanan is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work culture that empowers associates to take on significant responsibilities in complex real estate finance transactions. Located in London, the firm provides competitive compensation without the pressure of formal billable hour targets, fostering an environment where professional growth and meaningful engagement with high-value matters are prioritised.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Structured Finance Associate in Slough
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
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Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Buchanan. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Structured Finance Associate in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Buchanan.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Buchanan's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Buchanan
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Buchanan.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Buchanan will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Buchanan employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
