Legal Counsel - Investment Legal in City of London

Legal Counsel - Investment Legal in City of London

City of London Full-Time 81000 - 99000 £ / year (est.) Hybrid
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Provide legal advice on equity and fixed income capital markets transactions.
  • Company: Join a leading financial services firm with a collaborative culture.
  • Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package, flexible working, and focus on wellbeing.
  • Other info: Opportunity for career growth and a supportive team atmosphere.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while developing your legal expertise.
  • Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with 4+ years of experience in capital markets.

The predicted salary is between 81000 - 99000 £ per year.

About the Opportunity

  • Job Type: Permanent
  • Application Deadline: 10 November 2026
  • Department: Investment Legal
  • Location: Cannon Street, London (hybrid working)
  • Reports To: Head of Investment Legal

We’re proud to have been helping our clients build better financial futures for over 50 years. We achieve this by working together and supporting one another across our global business. Join our team and be part of something bigger.

About Global Legal

The Global Legal team has approximately 80 staff across the globe with lawyers sitting in most Fidelity offices. Legal’s mission is to contribute to good customer outcomes and the growth of Fidelity by providing effective, accurate and business orientated legal advice - delivering pragmatic solutions in partnership with our internal clients and external stakeholders while protecting Fidelity’s interests. We operate in a team of teams approach with groups of professionals coming together to combine skills and deliver outcomes without regard to geography or organizational structure.

About Investment Legal

The Investment Legal team consists of 7 specialist lawyers and paralegals based in London and Hong Kong, providing advice to our global investment management, research and trading teams. Colleagues have expertise in equity and fixed income markets, unlisted investments, trading, regulation, derivatives, governance, CSR, and other areas relevant to Fidelity’s investment activities. The team is an inclusive and enjoyable environment where people are free to have divergent views and plenty of responsibility and autonomy. It combines a good mix of interesting work with what for most will be a very good work / life balance.

Purpose of your role

The purpose of the role is primarily to support Fidelity’s European equities and fixed income capital markets activities and other investment business needs with excellent and pragmatic legal advice. We are looking for a lawyer who can partner closely with the business, including senior stakeholders, in a friendly, open and challenging environment. They should be capable of spotting, analysing and solving legal issues by marshalling first-rate technical expertise and of understanding the business in depth and applying often ill-fitting legal and regulatory concepts to that business in a commercial way. The role offers the possibility of genuinely partnering with the business and owning, with others, the legal risk in respect of it.

Key Responsibilities

  • Advising on fixed income and equity capital markets transactions, including on the documentation for and execution of cornerstone investments prior to an IPO, private taps of existing bonds, equity placings, block trades and the purchase or sale of unlisted equity or debt;
  • Advising investment professionals on interpreting applicable law or regulations as they apply to debt or equities investments, including on deal structures, covenant packages in high yield bonds, consent solicitations, and proxy voting;
  • Supporting the investment team on contentious legal issues with companies in which we invest, such as where there is a bond restructuring or defaults in portfolio securities;
  • Advising on the Market Abuse Regulation and other regulations or laws which relate to insider trading controls and wall crossing procedures within the markets in which Fidelity operates and invests;
  • Analysing and providing advice on corporate governance issues arising in companies in which we invest to ensure that Fidelity fulfils its stewardship obligations;
  • Preparing and presenting training to portfolio managers, analysts and traders on emerging or key issues;
  • Assisting business growth by working on projects, providing ad hoc legal advice and negotiating documents required to support fixed income, equity and private asset products;
  • Monitoring legal developments which may affect the investment business and reviewing/drafting (together with Investment Compliance) internal policies on investment matters;
  • Leveraging external counsel, group action providers and paralegals and others to deliver optimal outcomes;
  • Generally supporting and working with other departments and global Fidelity entities on country-specific, regional and global projects.

Experience and Qualifications Required

  • Qualified lawyer with 4+ years of post-qualification experience
  • Preferably admitted to practice as a solicitor in England and Wales and/or in a common law jurisdiction
  • Currently in private practice or in-house at another financial services firm in the UK
  • Experience in debt and/or equity capital markets in the UK, Europe and/or the U.S. preferred, but broader corporate or restructuring experience may also be relevant
  • Proactive and approachable style along with clear and succinct communication skills
  • Strong development focus, with inquisitive nature, seeking and accepting new experiences and challenging assignments to develop your capabilities. Eager to both provide insight and receive feedback.
  • Excellent organisational skills, accuracy and attention to detail
  • Must be able to work independently, show initiative, prioritise workload and take full responsibility for completion of duties, including when under pressure to meet deadlines
  • A positive and flexible attitude to work
  • Must be able to work in a team and must demonstrate team spirit and commitment

Feel rewarded: For starters, we’ll offer you a comprehensive benefits package. We’ll value your wellbeing and support your development. And we’ll be as flexible as we can about where and when you work – finding a balance that works for all of us. It’s all part of our commitment to making you feel motivated by the work you do and happy to be part of our team.

Legal Counsel - Investment Legal in City of London employer: Fidelity International

At our London office, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and supportive work culture that empowers our Equity Research Analysts to thrive. With a strong emphasis on employee development, we offer comprehensive benefits and flexible working arrangements, ensuring that you can balance your professional and personal life while contributing to meaningful investment decisions. Join us to be part of a dynamic team where your insights are valued and your growth is prioritized.

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Contact Details:

Fidelity International Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel - Investment Legal 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.

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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 Fidelity International, 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 Legal Counsel - Investment Legal in City of London

Legal Expertise in Capital Markets
Knowledge of Debt and Equity Transactions
Understanding of Market Abuse Regulation
Corporate Governance Analysis
Contract Negotiation
Regulatory Compliance
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Fidelity International, 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 Fidelity International and the specific role of Legal Counsel - Investment Legal. 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 Fidelity International’s culture!

How to prepare for a job interview at Fidelity International

✨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 Fidelity International.

✨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 Fidelity International.