Registered Investment Funds Associate

Job Overview

A leading law firm is seeking a Corporate Associate to join its Investment Services team in any of its U.S. offices. This role offers the opportunity to work within a dynamic and collaborative legal practice focused on registered investment funds and advisers. The position involves client-facing responsibilities, transaction leadership, and participation in business development, providing an ideal platform for long-term career advancement.

Location

• Chicago, IL

Duties

• Provide legal counsel on regulatory and compliance matters under federal securities laws, including the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the Securities Act of 1933

• Lead or significantly contribute to investment fund reorganizations, mergers, and related transactions

• Advise clients on mutual funds, ETFs, closed-end funds, and independent trustees and directors

• Handle multiple concurrent matters and manage complex legal workstreams

• Collaborate with partners and senior counsel on high-level client matters

• Engage in client development and internal firm-building initiatives

Requirements

• 4–7 years of experience advising registered investment companies and investment advisers

• Familiarity with compliance frameworks and regulations applicable to investment funds

• Demonstrated experience in complex transactions, particularly fund reorganizations or mergers

• Strong case and matter management skills

• Eligible for bar admission in the jurisdiction of office location

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school

• Strong academic performance preferred

Certifications

• Admission to the bar in good standing in at least one U.S. jurisdiction, or actively pursuing admission

Skills

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills

• Advanced knowledge of investment fund structures and operations

• Proficiency in legal research, drafting, and client advisement

• High attention to detail and organization

• Capable of balancing priorities and working independently under deadlines

Benefits

• Annual Bonus: Discretionary performance-based bonuses

• Retirement Plans: 401(k) with traditional and Roth options (administered by Vanguard)

• Health Coverage: Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; flexible spending and HSA options

• Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, personal days, and holidays

• Work-Life Balance: Hybrid schedule (3 in-office, 2 remote); family-friendly policies

• Professional Development: Ongoing training, mentorship, and career growth opportunities

• Other Perks: Employee discounts, commuter benefits, child and elder care support, wellness programs, fitness discounts

Here is a premier mid-sized law firm, with sophisticated practice in corporate, labor and employment, and litigation. It has one of the most successful and prestigious intellectual property (including patent prosecution and litigation), M&A, finance/commercial lending and investment services (mutual fund, etc.) practices in the nation. With a couple of offices in the East Coast, and a main office in Chicago, this firm is a powerhouse when it comes to technological and financial and finance matters. Its clients range from Fortune 500 corporations, other private and public companies, startups, banks and other financial institutions, securities brokers and dealers, mutual funds, investment advisers, insurance companies, multi-employer benefit plans, manufacturers, universities, school districts, municipalities, utilities, health care institutions, trade and professional associations, not-for-profit organizations, and individuals. Client contact is early, and you are expected to produce and work hard from the first day. Everyone takes their jobs very seriously, but mentorship and guidance is available for those who seek it. The pay is competitive with the largest law firms in Chicago, and the firm provides merit-based bonuses to avoid strict lock-step compensation. Top grades from top law schools are required. For someone who wants to be a part of an innovative, yet prestigious law firm that has superb reputation and sophisticated practice that rivals the large firms in town, this is your place.