At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape outcomes in private equity by advising on complex restructurings and distressed transactions.
- Company: Join a leading global private equity investor with a dynamic legal team.
- Benefits: Gain international exposure, meaningful responsibility, and opportunities for career progression.
- Other info: Ideal for lawyers seeking their first in-house role with a focus on operational aspects.
- Why this job: Make a tangible impact by working directly with investment professionals and portfolio management teams.
- Qualifications: 5+ years of experience in restructuring or corporate M&A, with strong commercial awareness.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Senior Legal Counsel - Private Equity | Restructuring & Distressed M&A
An opportunity to move beyond advising on transactions and start shaping the outcome.
Are you a Restructuring or Corporate M&A lawyer with experience advising on distressed transactions, complex restructurings or special situations?
We're partnering with a leading global private equity investor looking to appoint a Senior Legal Counsel to join its growing legal function.
This is an opportunity for an ambitious lawyer to transition into a highly commercial, investment-focused environment, working directly alongside investment professionals, operational specialists and portfolio company management teams.
Unlike traditional in-house legal positions, this role offers genuine exposure to the operational side of private equity, supporting businesses through acquisitions, restructuring, transformation and ultimately exit.
The Opportunity
You'll work across a diverse portfolio of private equity investments, providing strategic and hands‑on legal support throughout the investment life‑cycle.
Key responsibilities include
- Advising on complex corporate restructurings, distressed situations and post‑acquisition matters.
- Working closely with investment and operational teams on portfolio company transformation projects.
- Supporting corporate governance, commercial legal matters and contentious situations across the portfolio.
- Managing external legal advisers on complex, multi‑jurisdictional matters.
- Developing and implementing legal frameworks and processes across portfolio businesses.
- Playing an active role in value creation initiatives, with exposure to senior investment professionals and management teams.
- Who We're Looking For
We're particularly interested in speaking with lawyers who have
- 5+ year's experience gained within a leading international law firm, private equity environment or in‑house legal function.
- A background in Restructuring, Distressed M&A, Special Situations or Corporate M&A.
- Experience advising on complex corporate transactions, restructurings or distressed businesses.
- Strong commercial awareness and an interest in the investment and operational aspects of private equity.
- The confidence to work directly with senior stakeholders and manage complex, cross‑border legal matters.
- Candidates currently practising within restructuring or corporate teams who are looking for their first in‑house opportunity are particularly encouraged to apply.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
Move closer to the investment decisions. Work alongside the professionals acquiring, managing and transforming businesses rather than advising solely from the outside.
Broaden your legal and commercial exposure.
Gain experience across the entire investment life‑cycle, from acquisition and restructuring through to portfolio transformation and exit.
Make a tangible impact. Become directly involved in the strategic and operational decisions that drive value across private equity investments.
Build a long‑term career in private equity.
Join an established global investment platform offering international exposure, meaningful responsibility and opportunities for progression.
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Senior Legal Counsel – Private Equity/Restructuring employer: Oliver James Group
As a leading player in the insurance sector, our client offers a dynamic work environment that fosters professional growth and development. Employees benefit from a comprehensive range of perks, including competitive salaries, robust training programmes, and a strong emphasis on work-life balance. The collaborative culture encourages innovation and allows team members to make meaningful contributions to the company's success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Counsel – Private Equity/Restructuring
✨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 Oliver James Group, 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 – Private Equity/Restructuring
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Oliver James Group, 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 Oliver James Group and the specific role of Senior Legal Counsel – Private Equity/Restructuring. 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 Oliver James Group’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oliver James Group
✨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 Oliver James Group.
✨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 Oliver James Group.
