Leveraged Finance Associate

Skadden’s London finance practice advises banks, financial sponsors and corporate borrowers on some of the largest, most complex and innovative cross-border financing transactions in the European market. We are consistently recognised as having one of the leading leveraged and acquisition finance practices, with expertise advising on all leveraged finance providers across all tiers of the capital structure including syndicated senior and second lien facilities, private credit facilities, ABL facilities, Holdco PIK and fund financings. In addition to leveraged finance, a substantial part of the group's practice comprises infrastructure and real estate finance, restructuring and asset-backed financings.

The team in London works closely with the finance practices in our other offices around the world, primarily the US, Germany, France and HK. Integration of teams across all offices is key to providing the high level of service our clients demand. Few transactions are purely domestic and solid transaction management skills are key to the role. The team regularly works alongside the high yield practice (e.g. on a bridge to bond financings or where loans sit alongside HYB).

The new hire will join a dynamic and fast growing group in London where you will undertake a wide variety of work reflecting the breadth of the group's practice, with a particular focus on leveraged finance and digital infrastructure finance. Working in a team that promotes a high performance, collaborative culture, you will have the chance to work on market leading, high profile, cross-border transactions, advising banks, financial sponsors and corporate clients from around the world. You will be regularly exposed to clients from the start and will be encouraged to market to those clients to build the firm’s relationship. You will be working with partners who care about your development and career progression.

Person Specification

• 4 to 6 years' relevant post qualification experience in the London market (or experience in a similar common law jurisdiction), although those with less or more relevant experience will be considered on their merits.
• A good understanding of highly leveraged capital structures and leveraged loan products.
• Experience representing either financial sponsors or banks or on M&A to large corporate cross border leverage financing.
• The confidence to take the lead on the drafting and negotiation of commitment papers and definitive loan and intercreditor documents.
• Preferably – but not essentially – experience in infrastructure finance.
• Complete understanding of English law security.
• Enthusiasm and an ability to work to demanding timetables for very demanding and clever clients.
• Strong client skills and an enthusiasm to develop client relationships and new business opportunities.

Remuneration

We pay generous rates and provide our lawyers with a highly competitive benefits package. The package includes:

• Discretionary year-end bonus
• Technology allowance
• 22 days holiday and 3 personal days
• Enhanced Family leave
• Private medical insurance
• Permanent health insurance
• Life assurance
• Interest free season ticket loan
• Travel insurance

Mentoring and Hybrid Working

Associates who join Skadden laterally participate in our mentor program, Skadden Integration+, which specifically focuses on the unique needs experienced attorneys face during professional transitions. These efforts, along with our professional development and other Skadden benefits, including a hybrid work model, which remains subject to review. Our hybrid work model consists of working Monday to Thursday in the office (for full-time attorneys), underscore Skadden’s long-standing commitment to investing in its people and culture.

Training and Development

Skadden has a sophisticated training programme that includes both in-house and external seminars and training sessions. We also pride ourselves on providing our lawyers with "on-the-job" training and constructive "real-time" partner feedback. The formal training programme includes:

• Regular know-how meetings.
• Weekly and monthly training seminars and workshops for all levels covering legal topics relevant to the firm’s practice areas and skills. These are presented by partners and associates and external specialists, KCs and other professionals.
• Live video-links to seminars presented across Skadden’s network of offices.

Pro bono is a core aspect of Skadden culture, and the firm dedicates approximately 3-5% of its total billable hours to pro bono matters. Our lawyers have an opportunity to get involved in a range of pro bono matters under the supervision of charities, on topics including family, welfare benefits, housing, and immigration, as well as corporate pro bono opportunities.