At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Private Funds team to advise on innovative fund structures and complex projects.
- Company: Simmons & Simmons, a leading international law firm with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, private medical insurance, and extensive learning opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with flexible working arrangements and vibrant social committees.
- Why this job: Work on high-quality, impactful projects with top specialists in the field.
- Qualifications: 4-8 years’ PQE in private fund formation or investment work.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 85000 £ per year.
Our market-leading Private Funds team sits within Simmons & Simmons’ international Asset Management and Investment Funds practice, advising asset managers and institutional investors on some of the most complex and innovative fund structures in the market. The team undertakes high-value, technically sophisticated work across the full lifecycle of private funds, working closely with colleagues across our UK and international network. We are recognised in the legal directories for both technical excellence and outstanding commerciality, and are a trusted adviser to leading private fund managers and global investors.
The practice involves advising a broad range of clients, including:
- Private equity fund sponsors
- Infrastructure, real estate and private credit funds
- Institutional investors and sovereign wealth funds
- Asset and wealth managers
- Managers forming and operating AIFs and other private fund structures
We regularly advise on:
- Fund formation, structuring and fundraising
- Investment and co-investment arrangements
- Carried interest and incentive structures
- Ongoing fund operations and regulatory considerations
- Investments by institutional and strategic investors into private funds
You will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge private funds matters alongside leading specialists in funds, financial services regulation, tax, corporate and finance, delivering seamless advice on complex cross-border projects.
The role involves recruiting either a Supervising or Managing Associate to play an integral role in the continued growth of our Private Funds practice. The successful candidate will have around 4-8 years’ PQE and strong experience in private fund formation and/or private fund investment work, gained at a leading City, international or well-regarded funds practice. You will be given early responsibility, direct client exposure and the opportunity to work closely with partners on significant and often first-of-their-kind mandates. The role also offers excellent scope to develop your profile within the market and across the firm.
We are keen to hear from lawyers who demonstrate:
- Excellent academic credentials
- Strong technical grounding in private funds work
- A commercial and pragmatic approach to advice
- Confidence in managing transactions and client relationships
- An interest in business development and contributing to the wider growth of the practice
- The ability to work collaboratively within a diverse and inclusive team
This is an outstanding opportunity to join a top-tier Private Funds practice offering genuinely high-quality work, international exposure and clear long-term career prospects for the right individual.
Here at Simmons & Simmons, we ensure that everyone’s voice is heard from day one, irrespective of job title, qualification, or background. You’ll be encouraged to have an enquiring mind and share ideas that can drive the firm forward. Through innovative learning and development opportunities, you will be provided with a platform to excel, enabling you to exceed your career ambitions and do things you never thought were possible.
Key Highlights:
- Competitive compensation package, including bonuses, private medical insurance, and pension contribution.
- A global skills academy offering extensive learning opportunities for all employees.
- A hybrid working model, requiring a minimum of three days in-office, subject to role and client needs.
- Integration of traditional legal expertise with innovative Simmons & Simmons Solutions.
- Recognition as a Stonewall Top Global Employer and a Top 75 Employer for Social Mobility.
- Vibrant social and sports committees, as well as art collections featuring renowned artists.
- The introduction of a Strategic Advisory Council to drive strategic initiatives in line with our mission.
We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment, offering equal employment opportunities across all spectrums of race, ethnicity, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and more. Flexible working arrangements are supported, and we strive to make our roles accessible to all. Our employee networks offer additional support, detailed in our D&I Information booklet provided during the recruitment process. We value diversity and encourage applications from those who are passionate and willing to grow with us, even if not all requirements are met. Your unique experiences and perspectives are welcomed here.
Associate - Funds employer: Simmons & Simmons
Simmons & Simmons is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where legal professionals can engage with high-profile clients and complex competition law issues. The firm prioritises employee growth through mentorship from experienced partners and provides a supportive culture that values collaboration and innovation, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding legal careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate - Funds
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Simmons & Simmons. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate - Funds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Simmons & Simmons.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Simmons & Simmons's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Simmons & Simmons
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Simmons & Simmons.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Simmons & Simmons will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Simmons & Simmons employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
