At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal support for real estate funds and collaborate on exciting projects.
- Company: Join a leading investment firm with a focus on growth and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible work options, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to professional development and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the dynamic world of real estate investments.
- Qualifications: 2-5 years PQE in real estate or corporate law, with strong teamwork skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
EMEA Real Estate is a strategic growth priority for the Columbia Threadneedle Alternatives business. The business continues to expand in a challenging market environment. This is a great opportunity to join as a Legal Counsel (2‑5 PQE) within the Alternatives & Responsible Investment legal team, providing legal support and advice to the Real Estate businesses in EMEA. The role will report to the EMEA Real Estate Senior Counsel. The legal support model for EMEA Real Estate is hybrid: the team is involved in fund structuring and internal governance matters working with external counsel directly, whereas the business leads on a BAU basis on all asset level transactions works with external counsel and without the involvement of the legal function unless an escalation is required.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the legal/regulatory aspects of structuring and launching new products, or restructuring existing products, working with senior counsel as a key point of contact to progress any initiative with external counsel and assisting with drafting and negotiation of all associated documentation.
- Work with other business functions including portfolio managers, tax, finance, company secretarial and real estate operations to deliver new products or business‑critical projects.
- Negotiate various legal documents and related contracts for funds and mandates including contracts with service providers (valuers, brokers, property managers) and letters of intent.
- Keep up to date with key developments and issues arising in relation to all relevant areas of law and regulation relating to real estate funds and real estate as an asset class in the UK and Europe.
- Support the effective governance and oversight of the real estate business.
- Assist with supervising a trainee on secondment from external counsel.
- Provide legal support and advice as needed on other products/services supported by the Team.
- Actively contribute to Columbia Threadneedle’s General Counsel’s Organisation (“GCO”) culture and align with its use of technology, such as AI, in a responsible and considered way.
Required Qualifications
- 2‑5 years PQE with real estate funds or other alternative funds experience and/or experience as a corporate lawyer, whether acting on real estate or other private asset transactions, gained either in-house at an investment management firm or in private practice.
Required Skillset
- Ability to act with clear ownership of tasks, follow through on commitments, and keep stakeholders informed on progress.
- Ability to proactively build new relationships, deal with a range of personalities, and raise effective challenges confidently.
- Strong collaborative and teamwork skills.
- A growth, flexible, and resilient mindset and willingness to tackle new issues.
- Ability to evaluate pros, cons and implications of different courses of action and present them clearly aligned with enterprise risk appetite.
- Ability to work easily within a team, within Legal and with other support functions, in particular Compliance and Tax.
- Willingness to go the extra mile to hit key deadlines.
- Ability to take a commercial and pragmatic approach.
In‑Office Collaboration & Work Hours
Employees work in the office at least four days per week, with flexibility to work from home one day per week. Some roles may require additional in‑office time or different in‑office expectations, and specific requirements will be discussed during the hiring process.
Equal Opportunity & Inclusive Hiring Statement
Columbia Threadneedle Investments is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to racial or ethnic background, religion or belief, sex or gender, nationality, genetic information, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, marital status, pregnancy or maternity or any other basis prohibited by law. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible recruitment process for individuals with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to aid your participation in the application or interview process, speak to your recruiter to discuss how we can support you.
Legal Counsel (Real Estate Funds) in London employer: Threadneedle group
Columbia Threadneedle Investments is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation within the EMEA Real Estate team. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful projects while benefiting from a hybrid work model that promotes work-life balance. Our inclusive culture and focus on responsible investment practices make this an ideal place for legal professionals looking to make a significant impact in the real estate sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel (Real Estate Funds) in London
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
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✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
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✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
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We think you need these skills to ace Legal Counsel (Real Estate Funds) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Threadneedle group, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Threadneedle group and the specific role of Legal Counsel (Real Estate Funds). Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Threadneedle group’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Threadneedle group
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Threadneedle group.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Threadneedle group.
