Position: Deputy General Counsel – Public Markets
Company: Cleveland & Co
Location: London Bridge
Reports To: General Counsel
About Cleveland & Co
Cleveland & Co is a leading legal advisory firm specialising in delivering innovative, practical, and tailored legal solutions to the investment management industry. We work across a range of asset classes, including equities, fixed income, derivatives, and structured products, as well as fund structures such as UCITS and ETFs. With a commitment to excellence and client service, we thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating environment.
Role Summary
Cleveland & Co is seeking an experienced Deputy General Counsel for Public Markets to join our team. This position is ideal for a highly skilled legal professional with deep expertise in public markets, including UCITS, AIFs, ETFs, other regulated fund structures and SMAs. The successful candidate will provide expert advice on complex regulatory, transactional, and operational matters, playing a key leadership role in managing risk, supporting fund structuring, and driving strategic growth within the public markets space.
The ideal candidate will have at least 10+ years’ experience and an excellent working knowledge of all vertical specialisms across public markets including:
* Public funds, including UCITS, AIFs, ETFs and other regulated fund structures;
* Separately managed accounts;
* Distribution of public funds;
* Custody/Depository services;
* Public fund administration; and
* Investment Management Regulation.
Key Responsibilities
* Legal Advisory: Provide expert legal counsel on matters relating to public markets, including fund structuring, trading, investments, and compliance.
* UCITS and Fund Structures: Advise clients on the establishment, operation, and ongoing management of UCITS funds, AIFs, ETFs, and other public fund vehicles in the UK, Luxembourg and Ireland.
* Transaction Support: Oversee legal aspects of public market transactions, including equity and debt securities, derivatives, structured products, fund distribution agreements, negotiating investment management agreements and advising on model portfolio services.
* Regulatory Compliance:
* Advise on global regulatory frameworks such as UCITS Directive, MiFID II, PRIIPs, FCA regulations, and other applicable requirements.
* Provide guidance on marketing and cross-border distribution of public funds, including regulatory filings and compliance with jurisdictional rules.
* Risk Management: Proactively identify and manage legal risks, offering innovative solutions to mitigate exposure and protect client interests.
* Documentation: Draft, review, and negotiate key documentation, including fund prospectuses, investment management agreements, distribution agreements, and offering documents.
* Client Relationships: Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, acting as a trusted advisor on legal and strategic issues related to public markets and regulated funds.
* Leadership: Mentor and oversee junior team members, fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture.
* Market Insights: Monitor legal and regulatory developments affecting public markets and provide actionable insights to clients and the firm’s leadership.
* Business Development: Support the growth of the firm’s public markets practice by identifying opportunities, participating in client pitches, and contributing to strategic initiatives.
* 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 a excellent academic background (dual or tri qualified preferred)
Experience:
* 10+ years of post-qualification experience, with deep technical experience in public markets, with significant exposure to UCITS, ETFs, and other regulated fund structures.
* Experience working in a top-tier law firm and in-house legal team within the investment management industry.
Skills:
* Strong knowledge of UCITS Directive, AIFMD, MiFID II, and other relevant regulations.
* Proven ability to advise on fund structuring, governance, and compliance matters.
* Strong drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.
* Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
* Ability to work autonomously in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
Attributes:
* Strategic thinker with a commercial mindset.
* Proactive, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities effectively.
* Collaborative team player with strong leadership and mentoring capabilities.
Why Join Cleveland & Co?
* Innovative Environment: Work in a dynamic firm that values creativity, collaboration, and excellence.
* Career Progression: Join a firm that supports your professional development and career aspirations.
* Diverse Opportunities: Engage in complex and varied legal matters across public markets, UCITS, and other regulated funds.
* Client Impact: Contribute to the success of leading clients in the investment management industry.
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.