At a Glance
- Tasks: Advise on cross-border M&A and private equity transactions with direct client interaction.
- Company: Leading transatlantic law firm with a strong private equity practice.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, clear progression to partnership, and exposure to US-style transactions.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in a dynamic environment with global clients and impactful work.
- Qualifications: 4-6 years PQE in corporate/private equity and experience with private equity sponsors.
- Other info: Lean deal teams ensure meaningful associate responsibility and career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
We are working with a leading transatlantic law firm on the hire of a 4–6 PQE Corporate / Private Equity associate into its London Private Equity practice. The role sits within a team that advises UK, European and US private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies on cross-border M&A, platform acquisitions, bolt-ons, minority investments, recapitalisations and exits. The practice is closely integrated with a US headquarters and wider US corporate platform, resulting in regular involvement on transactions with a US dimension.
The team has a strong concentration in private equity transactions across financial services, insurance, technology, healthcare and asset management. Matters frequently involve complex structuring, regulatory considerations and sponsor-driven execution timetables. Associates work directly with a core group of private equity partners covering sponsor buyouts, carve-outs, acquisition mandates, recapitalisations and minority investments. Deal teams are intentionally lean, with associates taking an active role in transaction management and sponsor interaction.
The practice acts for a mix of established global sponsors and first-time or emerging funds, including US-backed managers investing into the UK and Europe. Work is repeat-driven and typically spans the full private equity lifecycle, providing continuity across investments rather than one-off mandates.
A fully integrated US–UK private equity platform, rather than a referral-based model. Direct exposure to sponsors and senior decision-makers. Lean, partner-led deal teams with meaningful associate responsibility. Consistent cross-border work and US-style transaction exposure. Clear progression within a growing London corporate practice, with partnership a realistic long-term outcome for the right profile.
Candidate profile: 4–6 years’ PQE in corporate / private equity. Experience acting for private equity sponsors or on sponsor-led transactions. Comfortable working on cross-border matters and with US deal dynamics. Seeking increased responsibility and closer partner access.
Corporate Solicitor - Private Equity Associate (4-6 PQE) in London employer: Rutherford
Contact Detail:
Rutherford Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Corporate Solicitor - Private Equity Associate (4-6 PQE) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the private equity space. Attend industry events, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to alumni from your university who are already in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and current market trends. We want you to be able to discuss recent deals and demonstrate your understanding of cross-border M&A dynamics. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll need to articulate why you’re the perfect fit for the role. Highlight your experience with private equity sponsors and your comfort with complex transactions. Make it clear that you’re ready to take on responsibility and work closely with partners.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our firm.
We think you need these skills to ace Corporate Solicitor - Private Equity Associate (4-6 PQE) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in corporate and private equity law. We want to see how your skills align with the specific requirements of the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant transactions you've worked on.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about private equity and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Cross-Border Experience: Since this role involves cross-border matters, make sure to highlight any relevant international experience. Whether it's working with US clients or handling complex regulatory issues, we want to know how you can navigate these waters.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rutherford
✨Know Your Private Equity Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and key players in the private equity sector. Familiarise yourself with recent high-profile deals, especially those involving cross-border transactions, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of the field.
✨Showcase Your Transaction Experience
Be ready to discuss specific transactions you've worked on, particularly those that involved complex structuring or regulatory considerations. Highlight your role in these deals and how you interacted with sponsors, as this will demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the responsibilities of the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that test your legal knowledge and analytical skills. Brush up on M&A processes, recapitalisations, and minority investments. Practising answers to common technical questions can help you articulate your thoughts clearly during the interview.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t just answer questions; engage in a dialogue. Ask insightful questions about their recent work, the team dynamics, and how they approach cross-border matters. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you assess if the firm is the right fit for you.