The Firm
We represent a highly prestigious, mid-sized Am Law 200 firm focused exclusively on finance. Its core practice areas include Asset Securitization, Commercial Lending, Securities, Public Finance, and Financial Litigation, with clients spanning the global financial markets.
The firm is widely recognized as a market leader in the finance space, with all of its core practice groups recognized by Chambers and many ranked Band 1. The firm is unique in the market for maintaining prestigious practice groups while also offering lean teams and a mid-sized firm culture.
The Role
Our client is seeking a Senior Counsel to join its Commercial Lending practice within the Banking and Financial Services Department. The team advises lenders and borrowers on sophisticated commercial finance transactions, including leveraged finance and sponsor-backed acquisition financings in the core and upper middle market. The role will work closely with the Chicago office, though candidates may be based in other locations.
The successful candidate will act as a senior lead on complex transactions and work with banks, direct lenders, and corporate borrowers on bilateral, club, and broadly syndicated financings.
The role will include
- Leading commercial finance work and acting as first chair on leveraged finance and sponsor finance acquisition deals
- Leading the drafting and negotiation of credit agreements, SunGard commitment papers, subordination and intercreditor agreements, agreements among lenders, mezzanine and second-lien loan agreements, amendments, forbearance agreements, and sponsor guarantees
- Reviewing acquisition documentation and advising on implications for credit agreements
- Overseeing bilateral, club, and syndicated transactions for banks and direct lenders
- Managing key client relationships and contributing to business development
Required
- Seven to twelve years of experience in commercial lending, leveraged finance, or sponsor finance
- Extensive experience drafting and negotiating secured lending documentation
- Strong understanding of acquisition financings and their impact on credit agreements
- Excellent communication, analytical, and drafting skills
- Ability to lead complex transactions and work collaboratively within a team
- Admission in good standing, or eligibility to waive into the relevant state bar
