Associate, Private Equity/M&A - Leading Law Firm (4-6PQE)

JR United Kingdom; London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A top-tier international law firm in London is seeking an Associate with 4-6 years' PQE to join its private funds-focused team. The role involves advising financial sponsors on mid-market transactions and offers significant responsibility within a collaborative environment. Ideal candidates will have experience in executing transactions and a strong network in the private equity space.

Qualifications

• 4-6 PQE with Mid-Market PE/M&A experience from a leading UK law firm.
• Strong network in the mid-market sponsor space is advantageous.
• Ability to manage deal workstreams independently.

Responsibilities

• Advise financial sponsors on mid-market transactions including buyouts and co-investments.
• Execute transactions and manage client relationships.
• Contribute to a team experiencing strategic growth.

Skills

Client-facing work

Deal workstream management

Commercial awareness

Education

Qualified solicitor in the UK

Job description

Associate, Private Equity/M&A - Leading Law Firm (4-6PQE), London

Client: Rutherford

Location: London, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Description:

A top-tier international law firm is seeking a talented Associate with 4–6 years’ post-qualification experience to join its private funds-focused team in London.

The practice advises financial sponsors on mid-market transactions, including buyouts, co-investments, minority investments, and restructurings across sectors such as technology, healthcare, infrastructure, insurance, and professional services.

The successful candidate will have experience in executing mid-market transactions, preferably with private equity clients. This role offers significant responsibility within a partner-led team that values collaboration, commercial awareness, and high-quality client service.

This position is suitable for an associate who enjoys client-facing work, can manage deal workstreams independently, and wishes to contribute to a team experiencing strategic growth with high-caliber Partners.

While business development experience is not mandatory, a strong network and familiarity with the mid-market sponsor space are advantageous.

The team operates with a sustainable billing target of approximately 1,500-1,600 hours per year and provides a viable alternative to the high-burn model of US firms, with clear development and progression opportunities.

Requirements:

• 4-6 PQE with Mid-Market PE/M&A experience from a leading UK law firm.

Rutherford has over a decade of experience in legal recruitment, focusing on connecting outstanding lawyers with top law firms and in-house roles in London. We offer a transparent, consultative approach and a deep understanding of the market to meet your career goals.

Many clients work exclusively with Rutherford, providing discreet access to exclusive opportunities. Our vacancies are a snapshot of current roles; for a comprehensive view, contact us directly.

We welcome discussions with lawyers seeking market insights or exploring new roles. If you meet the criteria and haven't heard from us, please reach out or apply to other roles.

Rutherford is committed to equal opportunity and maintaining a discrimination-free recruitment process, respecting diversity in all forms.