Debt Finance (General Banking) Associate in Westminster

The Debt Finance team is part of our wider Finance practice and handles a wide range of transactional debt financings, including lender-side and borrower-side real estate finance, leveraged and acquisition finance, asset-based lending and secured and unsecured corporate lending, as well as non-contentious debt restructurings and distressed situations involving corporate trustees. The team represents UK and international banks, debt funds, investment companies, private equity houses, corporate borrowers, funds and trustees, among others. Associates are encouraged to work across workstreams to broaden their experience. The firm emphasises a culture that is informal and supportive and aims to deliver high-quality work with enjoyment and excellence.

We are supported by two dedicated Knowledge Development Lawyers. The firm is seeking a general banking associate with experience in general corporate lending, acquisition/leveraged finance, real estate finance and general banking, and a willingness to work across these areas as the department grows.

Stephenson Harwood is an international law firm focused on creating positive partnerships with clients. We represent listed and private companies, institutions and individuals, building lasting relationships in a complex and ever-changing world. Our focus sectors are Energy Transition, Life Sciences and Healthcare, Private Capital and Funds, Technology, and Transportation and Trade. With more than 1,500 people, including 220+ partners, across ten offices in Europe, the Middle East and Asia, we blend deep legal capabilities with broad commercial expertise and work with high-quality firms globally to support clients in over 100 countries. We value diversity and encourage applications from diverse and underrepresented demographics. We offer a range of flexible working arrangements and a comprehensive benefits package.

Responsibilities

• Dependent on experience, lead the drafting and negotiation of finance documents and manage the deal process with support from senior associates and partners.
• Regular interaction with clients and opposing law firms.
• Build excellent working relationships with clients and peers within the Firm.
• Be encouraged to participate in business development and develop internal and external contacts.
• Take an active role in transaction management and supervision of junior lawyers, including trainees and paralegals.

Qualifications

• Qualified lawyer with relevant post-qualification UK law experience, and excellent academic and professional qualifications.
• General lending experience gained in private practice is essential.
• Background in a firm with an excellent reputation in banking and finance.
• Ability to acquire, consolidate and apply up-to-date knowledge of the law.
• Accuracy and attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and numerical communication skills.
• Enthusiasm for business development.
• Organised and able to work to strict deadlines with the ability to prioritise.
• Good housekeeping/file management practices; manages and records time promptly and accurately.
• Resilient with the ability to handle setbacks and pressure.
• Cooperative and collaborative in approach with the ability to develop excellent working relationships at all levels and roles.
• Understanding of the Firm's market position and how it distinguishes its services from competitors.

Benefits

• A competitive salary and a host of family-friendly policies.
• Life assurance, private health and dental care for you and your family.
• A range of flexible benefits including gym discounts and retail vouchers.
• Tech, cycle and electric car schemes.
• A day off per year to volunteer with a charity of your choice outside of work.
• A wellbeing strategy focusing on physical, emotional, financial and social wellbeing.
• Most roles are hybrid, with options to work from the office or remotely; flexible arrangements can be discussed during the application process.
• We are an equal opportunity organisation and do not discriminate on age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, culture, or any other protected characteristics.