Associate (2-5PQE) - Structured Finance (Leading International Law Firm)

Our client is seeking a talented Associate to join its leading Structured Finance practice in London. This is an opportunity to work on some of the most sophisticated transactions in the securitisation and structured finance markets, with exposure to multi-jurisdictional deals and high-profile clients. You will handle complex mandates in a supportive environment that prioritises collaboration and professional growth.

Practice Overview

Our client’s Structured Debt group spans North America, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East, offering cutting-edge solutions across the full spectrum of financing structures. The team delivers bespoke services in areas such as:

• Residential mortgage-backed finance (including RMBS platforms and warehouse lines)
• Commercial mortgage-backed structures (CMBS, repackagings, and financing vehicles)
• Covered bonds and regulatory-driven financing arrangements
• Non-performing loan (NPL) sales and financings
• Trade receivables and ABCP conduits
• Consumer and SME ABS transactions, including embedded finance and credit card securitisations
• Auto loan and leasing securitisations
• Innovative or “esoteric” deals, such as marketplace lending and fleet-backed securitisations
• Cross-border regulatory matters under UK and EU frameworks

The team in London comprises c.70 lawyers and trainees, including around 15 partners. It operates within a larger integrated finance practice, leveraging close synergies across real estate and structured products.

Responsibilities

As an Associate, you will contribute across all stages of structured debt transactions. Your work will include:

• Managing and coordinating structured finance and securitisation deals through to closing
• Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating transaction documentation with precision and commercial awareness
• Advising clients on strategic, commercial, and regulatory considerations in a cross-border context
• Liaising with multi-disciplinary and multi-jurisdictional teams to deliver integrated solutions
• Conducting legal research to underpin structuring and compliance advice
• Supporting business development through client engagement and thought leadership
• Mentoring and guiding junior colleagues within the team
• Remaining current on market and regulatory developments to ensure advice reflects best practice

Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will be a highly motivated lawyer with 2 to 5 years’ PQE and strong experience in structured finance or related financing transactions from a leading international law firm E&W Qualified. Key attributes include:

• Demonstrable expertise in securitisations, asset-backed lending, or structured debt
• Excellent drafting and analytical skills with a meticulous eye for detail
• Confidence in managing complex transactions from start to finish
• A client-focused approach, with the ability to deliver commercial and pragmatic advice

Career Development and Opportunities

Our client provides a well-structured framework for career development, including:

• Formal technical and soft skills training
• Regular updates from dedicated knowledge teams
• Opportunities for secondments with clients or international offices
• Ongoing supervision, coaching, and mentoring from senior team members
• Active support for balanced workloads and long-term progression

Rutherford is a leading legal recruiter that also works closely with tier one sponsors, buyside firms and investment banks for in-house roles. Please get in contact if you would like to be alerted to the most exciting Counsel opportunities.

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Job Reference: SKJ367

Keywords

structured finance, securitisation, asset-backed securities, structured debt, CLO, RMBS, CMBS, ABS, NQ to 5 PQE, London, financial institutions, private credit, regulatory compliance, cross-border transactions