Finance Associate to Senior Associate (Counsel-Track) Placement

A highly talented finance lawyer on the West Coast was exploring opportunities that offered greater progression and alignment with his long-term goals. We reintroduced him to a leading international firm one that had previously met him for a different role, and positioned him for a role that was a far stronger fit. The firm quickly recognised his value, resulting in a smooth interview process and an offer that included a guaranteed promotion timeline, year-end bonus protection, and a significant sign-on bonus.

The Challenge:
The firm’s finance team was experiencing an exceptionally high workload and was running a nationwide search to secure the right senior-level hire. Although the candidate had met the firm before, it had been for a different group, meaning the firm needed to reassess his fit and suitability for the new opportunity.

The Approach:
We highlighted the candidate’s continued interest in the firm and demonstrated why he was an excellent match for this specific search. The process moved quickly and positively:

  • The candidate progressed smoothly through each stage of the interview process, impressing the group with both his experience and his enthusiasm.
  • He expressed a clear desire to join at the Counsel level, prompting negotiations about seniority and timing.
  • Due to the timing of the firm’s Counsel promotion cycle, a direct Counsel appointment was not possible on day one; however, the firm remained fully committed to securing him.

The Outcome:
A tailored solution was agreed. The candidate joined as a Senior Associate with a guaranteed promotion to Counsel, full protection of his 2025 year-end bonus, additional protection for his 2026 Counsel-track bonus and a significant sign-on bonus to enable him to start as soon as possible.

The Result:
The candidate was extremely pleased with the offer and accepted immediately. The firm secured a standout finance lawyer at a critical time, and the candidate gained a structured, accelerated pathway to Counsel with strong financial assurances.