At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead corporate deals, manage acquisitions, and oversee group structures across multiple markets.
- Company: Join LemFi, a fintech revolutionising finance for those who need it most.
- Benefits: Impactful work, competitive salary, and the chance to shape financial solutions globally.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for ownership and global impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while tackling complex financial challenges.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with 8+ years in corporate law and M&A experience.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Ambition has no passport. That belief is why LemFi exists. We're the financial engine for people the world wasn't built to serve, the millions who move countries to build something better and find the financial system hasn't caught up with them yet. We started with remittances: the money people send home to the people they love. Now we run multi-currency accounts, Savings, eSIMs and Credit. Because staying connected to home and building somewhere new are not two separate things.
About the role
Our Legal team is small, senior and hands-on. We do the work ourselves, cover each other's areas and use outside counsel only where local law or deal size genuinely requires it. You will be the group's lead lawyer on corporate structures, acquisitions and group corporate matters, working directly with the CLPO, the CFO and the founders. This is a role for a corporate and finance lawyer who wants to run deals rather than manage them from a distance. You will draft, negotiate and close transactions yourself, bring rigour to how we manage the group structure across a growing number of markets, and use AI tooling to move faster and work smarter across every part of the brief.
What you'll build and own
- Run acquisitions end to end - structuring, legal due diligence, sale and purchase agreements, disclosure, warranty and indemnity insurance, completion and post-completion integration - including targets that hold financial services licences.
- Lead change-in-control approval processes with the FCA, the Central Bank of Ireland, the Bank of Canada, MTL regulators and others, coordinating closely with Compliance and the business.
- Own the group corporate structure across the UK, Ireland, Norway, the US and other markets: capital injections, intra-group financing, debt-for-equity swaps and reorganisations.
- Prepare board and shareholder resolutions, support board and committee meetings across group entities, and oversee entity management and company secretarial work.
- Select, instruct and manage outside counsel on cross-border deals, agree fee estimates, challenge bills and keep deal costs within budget - pulling routine work in-house wherever it makes sense.
- Support employee equity arrangements in close partnership with the People and Finance teams.
- Use AI tools to accelerate first-draft work, due diligence review and research, so you can spend your time on the judgement calls that actually matter.
Your experience
- Qualified solicitor in England and Wales or Ireland, or advokat in Norway (or equivalent), with at least 8 years' PQE.
- Strong corporate, M&A and banking or finance experience, built at a leading law firm and ideally also in-house at a fintech, bank or regulated financial services business.
- A track record of leading equity rounds, debt facilities and acquisitions from term sheet through to completion - you have been in the room, not behind it.
- Experience with regulated entities and change-in-control processes across one or more of our key jurisdictions.
- Comfortable working across multiple jurisdictions and alongside founders, investors and lenders without needing hand-holding.
- A hands-on, practical style: you write first drafts yourself, give clear commercial advice and do not hide behind caveats.
Nice to have
- Experience with consumer credit funding structures such as warehouse facilities or forward-flow arrangements.
- Familiarity with cap table tools such as Carta.
- Fluency in Norwegian or another Scandinavian language.
Why join LemFi?
Your work here puts money back into families' pockets. That's the reward, and the weight of it. You'll take on some of the hardest problems in finance alongside people who do their best work when the stakes are real. We move fast and we expect a lot, because our customers can't afford for us to do otherwise. In return you get room to own real problems, global impact you can see, and a team that won't slow you down. Bring grit and ownership and there's a place for them here. Ambition belongs here, come and show us yours.
Senior Legal Counsel (Corporate, M&A & Financing) employer: LemFi
At LemFi, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that empowers our team to make a real difference in the lives of millions. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and growth, providing ample opportunities for professional development while tackling meaningful challenges in the fintech space. Join us in our mission to create a financial ecosystem that supports immigrants and promotes financial inclusion, all while enjoying the benefits of working in a diverse, global environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Counsel (Corporate, M&A & Financing)
✨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 LemFi, 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 Senior Legal Counsel (Corporate, M&A & Financing)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at LemFi, 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 LemFi and the specific role of Senior Legal Counsel (Corporate, M&A & Financing). 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 LemFi’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at LemFi
✨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 LemFi.
✨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 LemFi.