Structured Finance Associate

A prestigious law firm in London, UK, is seeking a mid-level associate (4-6 PQE) with expertise in structured finance. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience working with collateralized loan obligations (CLOs), asset-backed securities (ABS), residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS), commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS), insurance-linked products, capital relief transactions, warehouse financing, and/or repackaging transactions. A general understanding of banking law is also advantageous. Candidates should have strong critical thinking, time management, and organizational skills, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to high-profile structured finance matters at one of the world’s leading law firms.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as a key advisor on structured finance transactions, focusing on CLOs, ABS, RMBS, CMBS, and other structured products.
• Provide legal advice on capital relief transactions, warehouse financing, repackaging transactions, and insurance-linked securities.
• Lead and support in the drafting, negotiation, and review of transactional documents, including loan agreements, indentures, and related documents.
• Manage complex legal matters in structured finance from start to finish, ensuring all deadlines are met and documents are accurate.
• Conduct thorough due diligence on a wide variety of structured products and finance structures, identifying potential legal risks.
• Collaborate closely with clients, stakeholders, and internal teams to deliver tailored, practical solutions in line with client objectives.
• Handle client-facing communication, responding to inquiries and providing advice on complex legal and financial issues.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships while building a reputation as a trusted advisor on structured finance matters.
• Participate actively in internal strategy sessions and deal negotiations, contributing fresh insights and legal expertise.
• Stay up to date with industry developments, market trends, and regulatory changes that could impact structured finance transactions.

Qualifications:

• 4-6 years post-qualification experience (PQE) in structured finance, with experience in CLOs, ABS, RMBS, CMBS, and other related structured products.
• Demonstrable experience in capital relief transactions, warehouse financing, repackaging transactions, and insurance-linked products.
• A strong foundation in general banking law is advantageous but not essential.
• A law degree (JD) or equivalent from a top-tier institution, with strong academic credentials.
• Outstanding written communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise, and persuasive legal documents and client reports.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to handle complex legal and financial challenges.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively within a team, contributing ideas and adding value to high-profile transactions.
• A proactive attitude, with a strong desire to take ownership of matters and drive them to successful completion.

Desired Skills and Experience:

• Proven expertise in structured finance, particularly in CLOs, ABS, RMBS, and CMBS transactions.
• Experience advising clients in capital relief, warehouse financing, and other structured products.
• Knowledge of regulatory and compliance issues impacting the structured finance industry.
• Ability to engage directly with clients and other stakeholders, including negotiating complex terms and managing relationships.
• Interest in banking law and broader financial services practice areas.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health and dental plans.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions.
• Disability coverage to provide enhanced protection.
• Opportunity to work in a fast-paced and dynamic legal environment with a global reach.
• Competitive salary and excellent career progression opportunities in a top-tier firm.

This is the London office of a large firm based in the Eastern United States. This office handles the U.K. law matters for many of the firm's large, international clients. The firm has a full-service practice, but this office specializes in corporate, finance, and real estate law. Associates at this firm receive client contact and responsibility early in their careers, especially in smaller offices such as this one. Good training and mentoring programs are also available.