Associate - GMAC Finance (Dubai)

About the role

Freshfields' MENA Global M&A and Capital (Finance) practice is recruiting an Associate to join its finance team in Dubai. The practice advises high-profile clients across project finance, leveraged and acquisition finance, private debt and direct lending, general corporate finance, fund finance and derivatives, as well as restructuring and insolvency, with Islamic finance features in all areas. The firm values quality of candidate over years of experience.

Key responsibilities

• Work on a wide variety of transactions for a range of clients, covering general finance, fund finance, syndicated and corporate lending, Islamic finance, project finance and derivatives
• Negotiate and draft transaction documents and liaise with foreign counsel
• Contribute to the highest profile transactions, regionally and globally
• Help develop relationships with existing key clients and take part in business development and client events
• Provide general support to the MENA GMAC team as required

Required profile

• 2 years PQE in England and Wales terms (or equivalent)
• Committed to a legal career in the UAE
• At least one substantial banking and finance seat during training
• Experience on transactions from initial instruction through signing or closing, ideally beyond discrete aspects, due diligence and document review
• Strong academic record and qualifications
• Willingness to travel across the MENA region and beyond as required

Required skills

• Technical skills and grasp of finance concepts
• Foundational understanding of general finance, fund finance and syndicated/corporate lending
• Some exposure to or experience of Islamic finance, project finance and derivatives
• Effective communication, teamwork, client service and business development participation