Managing Associate - Fund Finance in Bristol

Our market leading funds finance practice advises banks, hedge fund managers, private equity funds, real estate funds and investment fund managers. Recognised for both technical excellence and outstanding commerciality, our market leading international funds finance practice advises financial institutions, alternative lenders, funds and sponsors in a wide range of financings involving different asset classes. Our areas of focus include capital call facilities, NAV facilities, hybrid facilities, GP/co-invest facilities and SMA facilities involving private equity, debt, credit, real estate and infrastructure funds.

Our combined finance and funds expertise and Simmons' well-established position on the panels of leading financial institutions provides our clients with an unrivalled, broad and deep market insight both from the lender and the borrower/sponsor side. We believe we are one of the few firms in the UK/Europe acting for both lenders and borrowers/funds in equal measure due to our Financial Institution and Asset Management sector focus.

What we are looking for

We are seeking to hire a Managing Associate (6+ PQE), who can be based either in our London or Bristol office. The ideal candidate will have a range of funds finance experience - capital call, hybrid, general partner, management fee, co-invest and NAV/asset backed facilities – ideally acting for both lenders and sponsors/borrowers. You will also have experience with fund structures and partnership documents, and the ability to work on transactions as part of a team in a friendly, collegiate environment.

Person specification

• Excellent academics, technically excellent with strong drafting skills
• Applicants will ideally be 6+ PQE, which will have been gained at another international or leading regional firm.
• Strong client focus with an ability and willingness to get actively involved in marketing and business development.
• Commercially driven.
• Able to work effectively as part of a diverse and inclusive team.

MA Development Programme

At Simmons & Simmons, we have a firmwide MA Development Programme for all Managing Associates on partnership track, to support your transition towards partnership with our Firm. The programme is both structured and flexible, focusing on three core leadership capabilities essential for future Partners:

• Client Relationship Development and Management: Growing trusted advisor relationships with clients and building your business plan for partner promotion
• People Management: Leading teams and developing talent.
• Commercial & Business Acumen: Demonstrating strategic thinking and commercial awareness.

Participants progress through four key stages:

• Transitioning into the MA role: Understanding the expectations at MA level with respect to clients, people and commercial and starting to meet some of those expectations.
• Alignment with Programme Clients & Group Projects: Deepening commercial and strategic skills through client alignment and collaborative group projects addressing real business challenges.
• Business Plan Development: Fine-tuning individual business plans with sponsor support, focusing on financial metrics and readiness for partner promotion.
• Delivering on Business Plan & Implementing Feedback: Acting on feedback from senior stakeholders and assessment centre, enhancing internal profile and demonstrating readiness for partnership.

The programme includes monthly skills sessions on business planning, partnership competencies, and technology, plus opportunities to work from other Simmons offices or key client locations to broaden experience and build networks.

Here at Simmons & Simmons

Simmons & Simmons is a place where dynamic minds thrive. Our culture is built on work that matters, you will work on inspirational and thought-provoking projects, using your influence to create positive impact for our clients, society and the planet. We also 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.

Equal opportunities

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.

For more information or to apply, please contact our Recruitment Team or visit our career page. Every day, our expert teams across Europe, the Middle East and Asia come together to solve some of the world’s most complex challenges. We’re an international melting pot of perspectives and experiences, united in helping to shape a better future for our clients, our people and our communities. A place for ideas, skills, ambition and innovation. For personal growth and professional challenge. For powering success through trust, respect, integrity and an unwavering commitment to quality.