Junior Associate | Derivatives & Structured Products (1–3 PQE)

A leading international law firm is seeking a Junior Associate to join its Derivatives & Structured Products practice in London. This opportunity sits within a highly integrated global Debt Capital Markets and Structured Finance team, offering exposure to complex, cross‑border transactions for a sophisticated financial institution client base.

The Team:

The firm’s debt capital markets practice advises on a broad spectrum of structured finance, capital markets and derivatives transactions, operating as part of a cohesive international platform. The derivatives and structured products team works closely with colleagues across jurisdictions, delivering coordinated advice on transactions spanning multiple financial markets.

The group is known for its ability to combine technical excellence with commercially focused advice, supporting clients on both transactional structuring and regulatory considerations.

The Role:

The successful candidate will gain exposure to a varied and technically challenging workload, advising financial institutions and corporates on a wide range of derivatives and structured finance matters.

Key areas of work include:

• Establishment and ongoing maintenance of structured products programmes (both on‑ and off‑balance sheet)
• Advising on securitised and over‑the‑counter (OTC) derivatives
• Supporting hedging arrangements within structured finance transactions
• Structured repo transactions and securities lending arrangements
• Repackaging structures
• Regulatory considerations arising in connection with derivatives and structured products

The role offers strong development opportunities within an international platform, with access to high‑profile, cross‑border matters and direct exposure to experienced partners and senior lawyers.

Key Responsibilities:

The Associate will:

• Contribute to the delivery of technically robust and commercially practical advice across a range of derivatives and structured finance matters
• Support the drafting and review of transaction documentation, demonstrating precision and strong attention to detail
• Manage aspects of transactions effectively, ensuring deadlines are met and work is delivered to a high standard
• Monitor relevant legal and regulatory developments and apply these insights to client work
• Work collaboratively within deal teams, contributing positively to team delivery and knowledge sharing
• Build and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues and clients, appropriate to level of experience
• Take ownership of tasks and proactively seek guidance when required

About the Candidate:

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• 0.5–3 years’ post‑qualification experience (or equivalent) gained within a leading law firm
• Exposure to derivatives, structured products, or broader debt capital markets / structured finance work
• Strong academic background and excellent drafting and communication skills
• Solid technical grounding combined with a willingness to deepen expertise in derivatives and structured products
• Commercial awareness and an understanding of the financial markets in which clients operate
• Strong organisational and time management capabilities, with the ability to perform under pressure
• A collaborative approach and the ability to work effectively within a team environment
• Motivation to develop client relationships and contribute to the broader success of the practice

The Firm:

The firm is a globally recognised legal practice with a strong presence across key financial centres. Its international reach and integrated operating model enable it to deliver coordinated, business‑focused advice on complex, multi‑jurisdictional matters.

With a strong emphasis on collaboration, development and long‑term career progression, the firm offers a high‑quality working environment supported by structured training and a competitive remuneration package.

If you are interested in this Derivatives law role, please apply or get in touch at Tomharding@taylorroot.com. If you are looking for a move, however this opportunity isn't the right fit for you, let me know and I'll be happy to help you find your ideal role.