Corporate Associate Attorney (Investment Funds & Private Fund Formation)

Job Description

Job Description

Direct Counsel is seeking a Corporate Associate to join a highly regarded Investment Funds practice in Houston. This is an exceptional opportunity for an attorney with sponsor-side fund formation experience who is looking to work with leading private equity sponsors on sophisticated fund formation, structuring, and operational matters.

The ideal candidate will have substantial experience advising sponsors on private investment funds and a strong understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks governing fund formation and operations.

Responsibilities

• Advise private equity sponsors on the formation, structuring, and operation of private investment funds
• Draft and negotiate:
  • Limited Partnership Agreements (LPAs)
  • Subscription documents
  • Side letters
  • Fund governance documents
  • Related fund formation documentation
• Manage investor negotiations and investor-side requests
• Counsel sponsors on fund regulatory and compliance matters
• Advise clients on ongoing fund operations and governance issues
• Coordinate fund closings and fundraising activities
• Collaborate with attorneys across tax, regulatory, corporate, and investment management practices
• Provide strategic advice on market terms and industry developments

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school
• Law school class years 2019–2022
• Significant sponsor-side private fund formation experience
• Experience advising on:
  • Private equity funds
  • Investment fund structuring
  • Fund formation transactions
  • Fund operations and governance
• Strong understanding of applicable fund regulatory frameworks
• Experience drafting and negotiating fund documentation
• Experience managing investor negotiations and side letter discussions
• Excellent drafting, analytical, and communication skills
• Strong attention to detail and organizational abilities
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team environment
• Strong academic credentials

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $260,000 – $390,000
• Compensation based on experience, qualifications, and other operational considerations
• Discretionary performance-based bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive healthcare benefits
• Retirement benefits
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Parental leave
• Basic life insurance

Why This Opportunity

• Join a market-leading sponsor-side investment funds practice
• Work with premier private equity sponsors on sophisticated fund formation matters
• Gain significant client exposure and responsibility
• Advise on complex fund structuring and regulatory issues
• Collaborate with highly regarded attorneys across multiple disciplines
• Strong opportunities for mentorship, professional development, and long-term advancement

Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier law firms and fostering inclusive hiring practices.