Legal Counsel – European Funds & Distribution

About the role

Barings is seeking a qualified lawyer to join its European Funds team in London. The role focuses on advising on the creation and ongoing operation of European investment funds and separate accounts, while collaborating closely with product, investment, and other internal teams.

Key responsibilities

• Provide pragmatic legal advice on fund establishment, structuring, and operation across Luxembourg, Irish and UK platforms, including regulatory considerations.
• Build strong relationships with business teams and act as a trusted, solutions‑focused advisor.
• Manage external counsel relationships to ensure high‑quality, timely, and cost‑effective advice.
• Lead legal aspects of new fund launches, drafting and negotiating fund documentation and supporting investor discussions.
• Review and negotiate documentation for a range of fund structures and asset classes, such as private credit, real estate debt and equity, portfolio finance, and public fixed income.
• Serve as an escalation point for complex legal issues and collaborate on risk management.
• Contribute to improving team processes and delivery efficiency.

Required profile

• Qualified lawyer with 3–6 years post‑qualification experience in a funds or investment‑management practice (private practice and/or in‑house).
• Strong fund formation experience is essential.
• Qualification in England and Wales, Ireland or Luxembourg preferred; other jurisdictions considered.
• Good working knowledge of European fund structures and regulations (AIFMD, UCITS).

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on complex, high‑impact projects within a global financial institution.
• Collaborative environment with cross‑functional teams.
• Professional development and career progression support.