Fund Formation Partner

The Role

A number of international law firms with UK and US origins are hiring Funds Formation Partners to build out their investment funds practices across the Middle East. Positions are based primarily in Abu Dhabi, with additional openings in Dubai and Saudi Arabia. These roles are open to existing Partners currently based in London or the United States who are willing to relocate.

Notably, several firms are prepared to consider candidates without a portable book of business. Technical expertise and track record carry significant weight in the assessment process.

Responsibilities

• Advise fund sponsors, general partners and asset managers on the structuring, establishment and operation of investment funds.
• Lead GP-led fund formation mandates across alternative investment strategies.
• Provide legal advice on fund structuring, regulatory requirements, governance and fund documentation.
• Advise international and regional clients establishing investment funds in the Middle East.
• Handle cross-border fund formation matters involving the UAE, Saudi Arabia and international financial markets.
• Build relationships with fund sponsors, institutional investors and sovereign wealth funds.
• Contribute to the growth of the investment funds practice across the region.
• Collaborate with international partners and practice groups on complex fund formation transactions.

Candidate Requirements

• Current Partner at a reputable UK, US or international law firm.
• Significant experience advising on GP-led investment fund formation and structuring.
• Strong technical knowledge of investment funds, alternative asset management and relevant regulatory frameworks.
• Demonstrated track record advising fund sponsors and general partners on complex fund formation mandates.
• Experience working with international institutional investors, asset managers or sovereign wealth funds.
• Willingness to relocate to Abu Dhabi, Dubai or Saudi Arabia.

Highly Desirable

• Prior experience advising Middle Eastern sovereign wealth funds or institutional investors from a London or US base.
• Exposure to Middle Eastern investment structures, fund sponsors or regulatory environments.
• Experience contributing to investment funds practice development or international practice expansion.

Locations

• Primary: Abu Dhabi, UAE
• Additional: Dubai, UAE and Saudi Arabia

Application Process

Enquiries are handled on a confidential basis. Partners with experience advising Middle Eastern sovereign wealth funds are particularly encouraged to apply. Interested candidates currently based in London or the United States should submit a confidential enquiry for further information.