Associate - Corporate (Shareholder Activism) - New York

McDermott Will & Schulte; New York (NY); On-site; USD 235,000 - 455,000; Full time

Job summary

McDermott Will & Schulte in New York seeks an associate with securities, capital markets and governance experience to join our team. The role involves working closely with senior partners on high-stakes matters, developing client relationships, and contributing to the shareholder activism and capital markets teams.

Responsibilities include advising on activism and governance, drafting registration statements, collaborating on campaigns, and shaping team strategy while delivering client-focused

Qualifications

• JD or equivalent
• Admitted to practice in New York
• 3–5 years of securities law, corporate governance and shareholder activism experience
• Excellent drafting, negotiation and transaction management skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with cross-functional deal teams in high-pressure, fast-paced environments

Responsibilities

• Advise clients on shareholder activism and corporate governance matters
• Advise clients on equity capital markets matters such as underwritten offerings, PIPEs, registered directs and confidentially marketed public offerings
• Draft registration statements and Exchange Act disclosures (10-Ks, 10-Qs)
• Collaborate with senior partners on high-profile campaigns and related transactions
• Contribute to the strategic direction of shareholder activism and capital markets teams
• develop and maintain strong client relationships

Skills

Drafting

Negotiation

Transaction management

Independent work

Education

JD or equivalent

Job description

Build your big career with the firm that does Big Law, Better. McDermott Will & Schulte is a leading global law firm that brings together more than 1,700+ lawyers and 1,450 business professionals. We celebrate excellence, collaboration, and community and have been recognized as a top workplace by USA Today, Fortune, The American Lawyer, Vault and others. We are also certified by Great Place to Work.

With Us, You’ll Find

• A firm where everyone belongs: Our award-winning culture prioritizes warmth and authenticity — we encourage you to be yourself!
• Enthusiasm for all perspectives: We’re smarter and stronger when everyone has a voice and a seat at the table. We welcome unique viewpoints and ideas, and we make opportunities for you and your career to thrive.
• Support to feel your best and do your best: Wellness is integral to building a successful career and a rich life. That’s why our McDermott Well program supports your physical, emotional, mental, and financial health, with an emphasis on work-life balance.
• Real rewards for real work: We offer generous compensation packages that recognize hard work and excellence

Job Summary

We are seeking an associate with securities, capital markets, corporate governance and shareholder activism experience to join our team in our New York office. The role involves working closely with senior partners on high-stakes matters, developing client relationships, and contributing to the shareholder activism and capital markets teams.

Responsibilities

• Advise clients on shareholder activism and corporate governance related matters.
• Advise clients on equity capital markets matter such as underwritten offerings, PIPEs , registered directs and confidentially marketed public offerings.
• Draft registration statements and Exchange Act disclosure, such as 10-K’s and 10-Q’s.
• Collaborate with senior partners on high-profile campaigns and related transactions.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the shareholder activism and capital markets teams.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships.

Requirements

• JD or equivalent
• Applicants must be admitted to practice in the state of New York.
• 3-5 years of experience in securities law, corporate governance, and shareholder activism matters.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and transaction management skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with cross-functional deal teams in high-pressure, fast-paced environments.

As part of our ongoing commitment to be #AlwaysBetter for our people, clients and communities, we have created a culture of belonging that champions your individuality as both a person and a professional. From our competitive compensation, top benefits and award-winning professional development programs to industry‑leading wellness initiatives, we support you through every stage of your life and career. With McDermott, you can live a life you love both in and outside of the office.

Expected Pay Range for Associates: 2026/2025 Class Compensation Years: $235,000

2024 Class Compensation Years: $245,000

2023 Class Compensation Years: $270,000

2022 Class Compensation Years: $320,000

2021 Class Compensation Years: $385,000

2020 Class Compensation Years: $410,000

2019 Class Compensation Years: $440,000

2018 and more senior class compensation years: $455,000