Private Equity NQ: September 2026 Intake - Leading US Law Firm

Our client, a leading US law firm with an expanding London presence, is seeking to hire into its highly regarded Private Equity practice. The team advises some of the world’s most prominent private equity sponsors and alternative investment platforms on complex, high-value transactions across the lifecycle of their investments.

This opportunity offers the chance to work closely with market-leading partners and associates on flagship buyouts, minority investments, carve-outs and exit transactions, with regular exposure to cross-border mandates spanning the US, Europe and Asia-Pacific.

The London private equity group has grown steadily alongside increasing sponsor demand and plays a key role in supporting the firm’s dominant US platform, particularly on European and international deal execution.

Work Highlights

The practice acts for an impressive roster of global private equity sponsors, growth equity investors and alternative capital providers. Clients include leading buyout houses, credit funds and infrastructure investors, as well as sovereign wealth funds, pension funds and other institutional capital sources.

Lawyers in the team advise across the full spectrum of private equity work, including:

• Buy-side and sell-side private equity transactions, including leveraged buyouts, minority investments and sponsor-led exits.
• Cross-border M&A transactions involving complex acquisition structures and multi-jurisdictional deal teams.
• Joint ventures, co-investments and consortium deals alongside institutional investors and strategic partners.
• Management equity and incentive arrangements in connection with sponsor-backed acquisitions.
• Ongoing portfolio company advisory work, including bolt-on acquisitions, restructurings and disposals.

Candidate Profile

• Trainee Solicitor at a leading City or international firm, qualifying in September 2026 with Private Equity and/or M&A seat experience.
• Strong academics and a solid training background.
• Exposure to sponsor-led transactions, leveraged acquisitions or complex corporate deals.
• Commercial mindset with an interest in private capital and sponsor dynamics.
• Enthusiasm for developing client relationships and contributing to business development at an early stage.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a US firm with a top-tier global reputation in private equity, as it continues to strengthen its London platform. The role offers exposure to some of the most sophisticated sponsors in the market, working on high-profile transactions within a collaborative and ambitious team.

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: NWC3313

Keywords: Private Equity, M&A, Buyouts, Leveraged Acquisitions, Sponsor-led Transactions, Management Equity, Cross-border M&A, NQ PQE, London, US Law Firm, Private Capital, Alternative Investments