Investment Funds Associate - Private Funds (New York)

Wicker Hamilton is working with a leading international law firm to recruit a high-calibre Investment Funds Associate to join its top-tier private funds practice in New York. This is an outstanding opportunity for a funds lawyer who wants exposure to market-leading sponsor work, meaningful client contact, and a genuinely broad private funds platform.The role is designed for associates who enjoy being close to the commercial decision-making process and who want to build a long-term career advising sophisticated fund managers and institutional investors.The OpportunityThe successful candidate will advise established and emerging fund sponsors on the formation, structuring, and operation of private investment funds across a range of strategies, including private equity, credit, real estate, and alternative assets.You will work closely with senior partners and directly with fund principals, handling the full lifecycle of funds work - from initial structuring and fundraising through to ongoing operational, regulatory, and investor-facing matters.This is a highly visible role within the practice, offering early responsibility, strong mentorship, and consistent exposure to complex, high-value mandates.Key ResponsibilitiesAdvise sponsors on the formation and structuring of private investment funds and related vehiclesDraft and negotiate fund documentation, including LPAs, subscription agreements, side letters, and operating agreementsRepresent fund sponsors and, where relevant, institutional investors on fund investments and negotiationsAdvise on ongoing fund operational and governance mattersWork across both GP and LP-side issues, providing commercially pragmatic adviceCollaborate with tax, regulatory, and transactional teams on integrated mattersBuild long-term client relationships through direct partner and client interactionCandidate Profile4–8 years’ post-JD experience in investment funds / private funds work at a leading law firmStrong experience in private fund formation and sponsor-side advisory workExposure to GP and LP matters highly desirableExcellent drafting, negotiation, and client-facing skillsCommercially minded with the ability to manage matters independently as seniority increasesAdmitted to the New York Bar (or eligible to waive in)Strong academic credentials and a collaborative working styleWhy This Role Stands OutHigh-quality sponsor-side funds practice with repeat institutional clientsDirect access to partners and fund principalsBroad asset class exposure rather than a narrow product focusClear runway for progression within a well-established funds platformCollegial, supportive culture with genuine investment in associate developmentCompensationHighly competitive New York market compensation, expected to range from $275,000 to $435,000 base, depending on class year and experience, plus discretionary bonus and comprehensive benefits.For a confidential discussion, please contact Matthew Pecoraro directly.