Job Description

A global private investment group is hiring a Legal Counsel, Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) to join its European legal team in London. This is an in-house legal role with a strong focus on cross-border M&A transactions, private equity investments, and corporate development across Europe.

The successful candidate will act as the lead M&A lawyer on European acquisitions, working closely with investment professionals, senior leadership, and portfolio company management. This role offers broad exposure to private equity transactions, strategic investments, and post-acquisition integration.

Key Responsibilities

Lead legal execution of European M&A transactions, including due diligence, structuring, drafting, and negotiating transaction documents Serve as the primary in-house M&A legal counsel for acquisitions and investments across Europe Manage and coordinate external law firms and advisers to ensure efficient and cost-effective deal execution Advise on transaction strategy, legal risk, and negotiation in partnership with investment teams Support corporate development initiatives such as acquisitions, joint ventures, carve-outs, add-ons, and divestitures Assist with post-acquisition integration, including corporate governance, regulatory filings, and compliance matters Provide ongoing legal support to portfolio companies, including commercial contracts, governance, and restructuring Monitor European legal and regulatory developments, including corporate law and competition considerations Prepare reports and updates for senior leadership on deal activity and transaction pipelines

Skills and Experience Required

Qualified Legal Counsel / Corporate Lawyer / M&A Lawyer admitted in the UK or another major European jurisdiction 4-7 years' experience in M&A or corporate law, gained at a leading law firm and/or in-house environment Strong experience in cross-border mergers and acquisitions, including complex deal structures Knowledge of European corporate law, governance, and regulatory frameworks Excellent drafting and negotiation skills with strong commercial awareness Ability to manage multiple M&A transactions in a fast-paced environment Confident working with senior stakeholders across international teams and time zones

Benefits and Opportunity

High-impact in-house Legal Counsel M&A role based in London Direct involvement in private equity and strategic investments Broad deal exposure across multiple industries and European jurisdictions Competitive salary and long-term career development opportunities
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 175,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Gym membership Health & wellbeing programme Private dental insurance Private medical insurance Sick pay
Work Location: In person