Principal - Fund Finance Advisory in London

Validus Risk Management is a leading independent financial services firm that helps clients navigate and manage their financial risks and financing needs through hands‑on advice, transaction execution, and cutting‑edge technology. We work globally with private markets managers across private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate segments. Our clients include some of the biggest names in the industry.

The Fund Finance Advisory (FFA) team plays a crucial role in supporting clients in their financing requirements at fund, GP, and ManCo levels. We help them devise solutions to better pursue their investment opportunities and then we structure, establish and manage the appropriate financing structures.

The Principal role is a unique opportunity for seasoned professionals looking to make a significant impact and contribute to the fast growth of the department. This position involves originating and leading transaction execution, managing teams, driving innovative solutions in a competitive and fast changing market, as well as maintaining and building client relationships.

• Interface with clients and counterparties to lead the execution of complex fund finance transactions as the senior point of contact within the Fund Finance Advisory team;
• Drive business growth by identifying new opportunities, contributing to new business proposals and expanding Validus' service offerings within the fund finance space and more generally the debt advisory and debt management arenas;
• When transacting on behalf of clients, you will start from devising and assessing options to address the clients' needs and opportunities, then interface with the market to implement the preferred option(s);
• You will be responsible for the "going to market" preparation, provide structuring advice, negotiation support and lead the project management of transactions;
• Develop and maintain deep relationships both with the sponsors and the fund finance community, positioning Validus as a trusted and respected advisor by every participant in the market;
• Mentor and manage junior team members, fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and excellence;
• Contribute to the ongoing development of best practices in fund finance as well as continuous improvement in internal operational processes;
• Stay ahead of industry trends and regulatory changes, ensuring that Validus remains at the forefront of fund finance advisory services.

• Are a natural team player who is very comfortable to operate in a flat and dynamic structure;
• A "doer";
• Have a minimum of 10 years of experience in fund finance, debt advisory or very closely related fields;
• Have a proven track record in leading and closing complex fund finance / debt transactions involving multiple stakeholders;
• Have an extensive network within the financial sponsor community and strong relationships across the entire fund finance market of lenders, legal firms and other service providers;
• Possess excellent communication skills with an ability to engage at all levels and to communicate complex concepts in a simple and clear manner;
• Have very strong analytical skills and attention to detail;
• Possess effective and tested project management capabilities;
• Have a strategic mindset with the ability to think critically and identify innovative solutions in a dynamic environment;
• Naturally, be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and relevant financial modelling.

• Advanced qualifications such as CFA or CAIA.
• Fluency in a second European language would be an advantage.

• Unrivalled growth opportunities within the fund finance advisory.
• Eligible to join company bonus scheme after 6 months.
• Enhanced Health Insurance with Dental, Optical and Mental health benefits.
• Financial support towards qualifications.
• Pension.

About the Company: Validus Risk Management is an independent technology‑enabled advisory firm specialising in the management of FX, interest rate and other market risks. We work with institutional investors, fund managers, and portfolio companies to design and implement strategies to measure, manage and monitor financial market risk, using a market‑tested combination of specialist consulting services, trade execution and innovative risk technology.

Working at Validus can offer an exciting opportunity for both personal development and professional growth. Share in our mission to become the largest and most respected specialist provider of financial market risk services in the world. Notable benefits include a competitive remuneration package (salary + bonus), health care, retirement plans, and financial support towards professional qualifications.

Our core company values are:

• Accountability – Getting it done and owning the result.
• Teamwork – We succeed by helping others succeed.
• Integrity – We serve our clients; the responsibility is sacrosanct.
• Diversity – Diversity boosts creativity – creativity is our edge.
• Kaizen – Strive to do things better. Innovation kills complacency.

Validus is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.