Deputy General Counsel EMEA – Private Markets

Cleveland & Co; Greater London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job description

Deputy General Counsel EMEA – Private Markets

Position: Deputy General Counsel – Private Markets

Company: Cleveland & Co

Location: London Bridge

Reports To: General Counsel

About Cleveland & Co

Cleveland & Co is a dynamic outsourced in-house legal team specialising in providing innovative and tailored legal solutions to the investment management industry. We pride ourselves on delivering expert advice across various asset classes, including private equity, real estate, infrastructure, debt, hedge funds, and venture capital.

Role Summary

We are seeking an experienced Deputy General Counsel for Private Markets to join our growing team. This role offers an exceptional opportunity for a talented and driven individual to lead legal initiatives and provide strategic advice to clients and internal teams. The successful candidate will have extensive experience in private markets, a strong commercial mindset, and a proven ability to navigate complex legal frameworks.

The ideal candidate will have at least 10+ years’ experience and an excellent working knowledge of all vertical specialisms across private markets including:

• Private funds, including private equity, real estate, infrastructure, debt, hedge and venture capital;
• Distribution of private funds;
• Custody/Depository services;
• Private fund administration;
• Trading, execution and clearing;
• Derivatives, repos and securities lending.

Key Responsibilities

• Legal Advisory: Provide expert legal advice on matters related to private markets, including fund formation, structuring, investments, and exits.
• Transaction Management: Oversee and manage end-to-end legal processes for private market transactions, including drafting, negotiating, and reviewing agreements such as LPAs, subscription agreements, and investment term sheets.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and industry standards, including AIFMD, MiFID II, SFDR, EMIR and local jurisdictional requirements.
• Risk Mitigation: Identify and manage legal risks related to private market investments, offering proactive solutions to mitigate exposure.
• Client Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, providing strategic advice tailored to their specific needs and objectives.
• Team Leadership: Mentor and support junior legal staff, fostering a culture of collaboration and professional growth.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure seamless delivery of legal services and strategic alignment.

Key Qualifications

Education: Qualified solicitor or attorney with an excellent academic background (dual or tri qualified preferred)

Experience:

• 10+ years of post-qualification experience, with deep technical experience in private markets (e.g. private equity, real estate, infrastructure, debt, hedge and venture capital).
• Experience working in a top-tier law firm and in-house legal team within the investment management industry.

Skills:

• Expertise in private market transactions, fund structures, and regulatory frameworks.
• Strong drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Exceptional client relationship management and communication skills.
• Ability to work autonomously in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.

Attributes:

• Commercially astute with a strategic mindset.
• Detail-oriented and proactive problem-solver.
• Team player with excellent leadership and mentoring abilities.

Why Join Cleveland & Co?

• Innovative Culture: Be part of a forward-thinking firm that values creativity, collaboration, and professional development.
• Career Growth: Work in an environment that encourages career progression and supports your professional ambitions.
• Diverse Work: Engage in challenging and diverse legal matters within the private markets sector.
• Client Impact: Make a tangible impact by advising high-profile clients and contributing to their success.

Application Process

To apply for this role, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and motivation to join Cleveland & Co. Applications can be sent to hr@cleveland-com.

Cleveland & Co is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Seniority level

Director

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Legal

Industries

Investment Management