First-Chair M&A & Private Equity Attorney

Decker Jones, P.C.; Kalamazoo (MI); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation support

Bar admission reimbursement

Job summary

Varnum is seeking an experienced corporate attorney to join its Michigan office, focusing on complex M&A and private equity transactions. The role offers first-chair responsibility on buy-side and sell-side deals for diverse clients, including closely held businesses and PE sponsors.

The candidate should have 7–10 years of relevant experience, JD from an accredited school, and be prepared to advise on venture financings, JV activity, and ongoing governance.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
• 7–10 years of relevant experience in mergers & acquisitions and private equity.
• First-chair experience leading complex transactions and negotiations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage M&A transactions in a first-chair capacity, including structuring, due diligence, negotiation, and execution of buy-side and sell-side deals.
• Represent private equity sponsors, portfolio companies, and closely held businesses through all stages of the deal cycle.
• Draft, review, and negotiate acquisition agreements, ancillary transaction documents, and a wide range of contracts.
• Advise clients on venture capital financings, joint ventures, and other investment transactions.
• Counsel clients on day-to-day corporate matters, including formation, governance, and general business counseling.
• Manage client relationships and contribute to business development across the corporate practice.
• Mentor and collaborate with associates on transactional and corporate matters.

Skills

First-chair leadership

M&A transactions

Negotiation skills

Attention to detail

Client management

Education

Juris Doctor

Job description

Varnum is seeking an experienced corporate attorney to join its Michigan office, focusing on complex M&A and private equity transactions. The role offers first-chair responsibility on buy-side and sell-side deals for diverse clients, including closely held businesses and PE sponsors.

The candidate should have 7–10 years of relevant experience, JD from an accredited school, and be prepared to advise on venture financings, JV activity, and ongoing governance.