At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage in high-end, complex private equity transactions with real responsibility.
- Company: Top-tier international firm with a strong London presence and collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive compensation, sustainable hours, and clear progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and deepen your private equity expertise at an elite platform.
- Qualifications: 4-6 PQE with strong corporate/M&A foundation and sponsor exposure.
- Other info: Diverse client base across sectors ensures varied and exciting work.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
A top-tier international firm with a strong London presence is quietly looking to add a mid-level Private Equity associate to its growing London corporate team. The practice advises private equity sponsors, institutional investors and portfolio companies on sophisticated, cross-border transactions, with London acting as a key hub within a genuinely global platform. The work is high-end, complex and international, but delivered through a lean, collaborative team that gives associates real responsibility and visibility.
The role is firmly sponsor-facing and covers the full private equity lifecycle, including:
- Platform and add-on acquisitions
- Buyouts, co-investments and joint ventures
- Minority and growth investments
- Debt and equity financings alongside leading finance teams
- Portfolio company matters and exit planning
The client base is diversified across sectors such as technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer and energy, meaning the work is varied rather than repetitive.
London is an important growth market for the firm, and recent senior hires reflect a clear commitment to building out the mid-level bench. Associates work closely with partners and alongside specialists in finance, tax, regulatory and capital markets, making this a genuinely integrated PE offering rather than a siloed M&A role.
This would suit someone who:
- Has 4-6 PQE
- Has strong corporate / M&A foundation, ideally with sponsor exposure
- Is technically strong, commercially minded and comfortable running workstreams
- Enjoys cross-border deals and complex documentation
- Wants to deepen their private equity specialism at an elite platform
The firm has a clear track record of investing in its people, with recent global promotions underscoring a culture of internal development. While partnership is never guaranteed, this is a platform where long-term progression is genuinely taken seriously. Hours are busy but sustainable for the level of work, and compensation sits on the higher end of the London market for this PQE band, without the intensity typically associated with some US platforms.
Private Equity Associate employer: Sonder Consultants
Contact Detail:
Sonder Consultants Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Private Equity Associate
✨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 or connections who work at firms you’re interested in. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can’t.
✨Ace the Informational Interview
If you can, set up informational interviews with professionals in the field. This isn’t just about asking for a job; it’s about learning from their experiences and getting insider tips on what firms are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Showcase Your Skills
When you get the chance to meet potential employers, make sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Be ready to discuss specific projects or deals you've worked on that relate to private equity. This is your moment to shine and demonstrate why you’re the right fit for their team.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for openings! Applying directly through our platform not only streamlines the process but also shows your enthusiasm for joining our team. We’re always on the lookout for passionate candidates who want to grow with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Private Equity Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Private Equity Associate role. Highlight your relevant experience in corporate/M&A and any sponsor exposure you have. We want to see how your background aligns with the high-end, complex work we do.
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 you can contribute to our collaborative team. Be sure to mention specific experiences that demonstrate your technical strength and commercial mindset.
Showcase Your Cross-Border Experience: Since this role involves cross-border transactions, make sure to highlight any relevant international experience. We love seeing candidates who are comfortable navigating complex documentation and diverse markets, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sonder Consultants
✨Know Your Private Equity Basics
Make sure you brush up on the fundamentals of private equity, including the lifecycle of investments and key terms like buyouts and co-investments. Being able to discuss these concepts confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the jargon but understand the intricacies of the field.
✨Showcase Your Cross-Border Experience
Since the role involves complex, international transactions, be prepared to share specific examples from your past work that highlight your experience with cross-border deals. This could include challenges you faced and how you navigated them, demonstrating your problem-solving skills.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Awareness
Employers want to see that you can think commercially. Be ready to discuss current trends in the private equity market and how they might impact the firm’s clients. This shows that you’re not just technically strong but also have a keen understanding of the business landscape.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm's approach to private equity and its growth strategy in London. This not only shows your interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the firm aligns with your career goals. Engaging in a two-way conversation can leave a lasting impression.