Finance Associate (Leveraged Finance / Acquisition Finance)

Overview

A leading US law firm is seeking a Finance Associate to join its London team. The practice advises private equity sponsors, financial institutions and corporate borrowers on complex leveraged and acquisition finance transactions across domestic and cross-border deals.

This role is ideally suited to an associate with 1.5–4 years’ PQE looking to join a growing team offering strong deal flow, close partner interaction and exposure to high-value sponsor-led transactions.

What You’ll Do

• Advise on leveraged finance and acquisition finance transactions for private equity sponsors and lenders.
• Draft and negotiate financing documentation, including facilities agreements, intercreditor agreements and security packages.
• Support complex cross-border financing transactions from structuring through to execution and closing.
• Work closely with corporate, restructuring and capital markets teams on multi-disciplinary matters.
• Engage directly with clients while managing key workstreams with partner oversight.

About You

• England & Wales qualified solicitor (or equivalent common law qualification).
• 1.5–4 years’ PQE gained at a leading US, Magic Circle or international finance practice.
• Experience in leveraged finance, acquisition finance or related banking work.
• Strong technical ability and understanding of financing structures.
• Commercially minded, collaborative and able to operate in a fast-paced transactional environment.

Salary & Bonus

• Competitive US market-aligned compensation (NQ reference salary approximately £165,000).
• Salary progression aligned with PQE level (indicative range £191,000–£226,500 for mid-level associates).
• Performance-related bonus structure with increased bonus potential linked to productivity.
• Typical utilisation expectations around 1,800 hours annually.

Why Apply?

• Opportunity to join a growing finance practice with strong deal flow.
• Exposure to sophisticated sponsor-led transactions.
• Collaborative team culture with strong partner interaction.
• High level of integration across the wider corporate and finance practices.
• Strong development opportunities within a leading US platform.

The Process

• Three-stage interview process involving partners and members of the team.

Ready to take the next step?

If you are a Finance Associate seeking a move to a leading US firm working on high-value leveraged finance transactions, apply today.