Associate (NQ) - Banking

Overview

Our UK Banking group delivers commercial advice on complex national and international banking & finance transactions.

We cover a diverse range of markets and clients, the common features being the negotiation, structuring (or restructuring) and documentation of commercial loan transactions for lenders and borrowers. We advise on deals ranging in size from small business loans for start-up companies to syndicated credit facilities in excess of £1 billion. Our lawyers work as part of cross-practice, cross-border teams on complex, multi-jurisdictional transactions.

We stand for quality, responsiveness and market knowledge and we are proud of our panel positions with many of the leading national and international financial institutions.

Our areas of specific expertise include general corporate lending, leveraged & acquisition finance, real estate finance, funds finance, trade and commodity finance and restructuring & special situations. We also work closely with our specialist financial markets regulatory lawyers to advise on the full range of legal issues involved in the selling of banking services in the international financial markets.

Clients choose us for our market knowledge, partner-led service, extensive multi-jurisdictional experience and our ability to deliver cutting edge transactions in tight timeframes.

We believe that having all types of people from all types of backgrounds provides a variety of approach and thought which helps our business be both creative and dynamic. The mix of S+S trained lawyers and lateral hires at various levels contributes to our culture of adopting new technologies and working practices in order to meet clients' changing needs and delivering smarter solutions.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

We have an exciting opportunity for an Associate to join our market leading UK Banking team, based in our Bristol office. The successful candidate will work seamlessly with Banking colleagues in Bristol, London and internationally, as part of a one team approach.

Our associates will gain experience across the full spectrum of banking & finance work that we do. The successful candidate will work as part of our full service team of partners, associates, trainees and paralegals on complex and innovative transactions for our national and international client base.

Candidates will have some transactional or general banking experience, ideally gained from working within an international or leading regional firm.

Person specification

• Excellent academics.
• Applicants will ideally be newly qualified lawyers, or trainee lawyers due to qualify in March 2026, with experience gained at another international or leading regional firm.
• Strong client focus with a willingness to get actively involved in marketing and business development.
• Commercially driven.
• Able to work effectively as part of a diverse and inclusive team.
• Flexibility and a willingness to work additional hours on occasion as required.

Here at Simmons & Simmons

Simmons & Simmons is a place where dynamic minds thrive. Our culture is built on work that matters, you will work on inspirational and thought-provoking projects, using your influence to create positive impact for our clients, society and the planet. We also ensure that everyone's voice is heard from day one, irrespective of job title, qualification, or background. You'll be encouraged to have an enquiring mind and share ideas that can drive the firm forward. Through innovative learning and development opportunities, you will be provided with a platform to excel, enabling you to exceed your career ambitions and do things you never thought were possible.

Key Highlights:

• Competitive compensation package, (including bonuses dependent on role/level), private medical insurance, and pension contribution.
• A global skills academy offering extensive learning opportunities for all employees.
• A hybrid working model, requiring a minimum of three days in-office, subject to role and client needs.
• Integration of traditional legal expertise with innovative Simmons & Simmons Solutions.
• Recognition as a Stonewall Top Global Employer and a Top 75 Employer for Social Mobility.
• Vibrant social and sports committees, as well as art collections featuring renowned artists.
• The introduction of a Strategic Advisory Council to drive strategic initiatives in line with our mission.

Equal opportunities

We foster an inclusive environment, offering equal employment opportunities across all spectrums of race, ethnicity, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and more. Requests for flexible working arrangements are supported (where possible), and we strive to make our roles accessible to all. Our employee networks offer additional support, detailed in our D&I Information booklet provided during the recruitment process.

We value diversity and encourage applications from those who are passionate and willing to grow with us, even if not all requirements are met. Your unique experiences and perspectives are welcomed here.

For more information or to apply, please contact our Recruitment Team or visit our career page.

Simmons & Simmons: A global law firm providing specialised legal services in various industries and sectors.