At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the structuring and establishment of private funds, ensuring alignment with legal and commercial objectives.
- Company: Join a leading global investment manager with a dynamic legal team in London.
- Benefits: Gain exposure to senior leadership, competitive salary, and opportunities for international travel.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with a focus on collaboration and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on fund formation and work closely with top-tier private equity sponsors.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with 5-7 years' experience in private equity fund formation.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
An exceptional opportunity has arisen for a funds lawyer to join the London legal team of a leading global investment manager, reporting directly to the GC. This role is ideally suited to a funds lawyer currently practising at a leading international law firm, advising top-tier private equity sponsors on fund formation, who is looking to move in-house into a highly visible, strategic position. You will play a central role in structuring and launching the firm’s private funds globally, acting as a key legal architect across the platform.
Key responsibilities
- Fund Formation & Structuring
- Lead the structuring and establishment of private funds from inception to final close, including flagship funds, parallel vehicles, feeder structures, co‑investment vehicles, continuation funds and SPVs.
- Design and implement fund frameworks across jurisdictions, working closely with Tax and Finance to ensure alignment across legal, regulatory and commercial objectives.
- Draft, review and negotiate core fund documentation, including LPAs, PPMs, subscription agreements and constitutional documents.
- Advise on fund economics and structural mechanics, including management fees, carried interest, GP commitments, recycling provisions, investment restrictions and liquidity features.
- Oversee initial and subsequent closings, amendments and side arrangements, ensuring documentation accurately reflects agreed commercial positions.
- Coordinate and manage external counsel across jurisdictions to ensure efficient execution and market-standard outcomes.
- Fundraising & Investor Relations
- Act as the primary legal interface for LPs during fundraising cycles.
- Lead negotiation of side letters and manage MFN processes.
- Advise Investor Relations on disclosures, investor communications and regulatory considerations.
- Support re‑ups, closings and ongoing investor queries throughout the fund lifecycle.
About you
- Qualified solicitor with strong academic credentials, ideally admitted in E&W.
- Circa 5–7 years’ PQE, trained and practising at a leading international law firm with a strong focus on private equity fund formation (credit experience advantageous).
- Deep familiarity with regulatory frameworks including FCA, AIFMD, MiFID II and, ideally, SEC considerations.
- Outstanding drafting, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
- Commercially astute, with the ability to translate business priorities into clear, pragmatic legal solutions.
- Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, high-performing environment and able to lead through ambiguity and change.
- Strong crisis management instincts and sound judgement under pressure.
- Highly collaborative, with the ability to build trust across senior stakeholders and investor groups.
- Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency, scalability and best practice.
Additional Information
- Highly visible role with direct exposure to senior leadership and global investors.
- London-based role.
- Four‑five days per week in the office.
- Some international travel required.
Funds Counsel - Private Equity employer: EJ Legal
Join a leading global investment manager in London, where you will thrive in a dynamic and collaborative work culture that values innovation and excellence. As a Funds Counsel, you will benefit from unparalleled opportunities for professional growth, working closely with senior leadership and global investors while enjoying a competitive compensation package and a commitment to work-life balance. This role not only offers the chance to shape the future of private equity funds but also fosters an environment where your contributions are recognised and valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Funds Counsel - Private Equity
✨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 EJ Legal, 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 Funds Counsel - Private Equity
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at EJ Legal, 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 EJ Legal and the specific role of Funds Counsel - Private Equity. 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 EJ Legal’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at EJ Legal
✨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 EJ Legal.
✨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 EJ Legal.
