Head of Legal (Interim) - Private Equity

Job Description

Coopman Search and Selection are partnering on a exclusive search with a top-tier private equity fund, managing multiple funds across several jurisdictions. Due to continued growth and increasing complexity, they are seeking an Interim Head of Legal until the end of 2026.

The role will see you lead the Legal function and serve as the primary legal adviser to the business. A major focus will be working with the Investment teams across the full investment lifecycle, from origination to exit, while also supporting fund formation, governance and regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions, including the UK, EU (including Luxembourg and Jersey structures) and the United States.

Key Responsibilities: • Lead legal support across the full investment lifecycle (NDA to exit) • Advise on transactions, structuring, and governance across global jurisdictions • Manage external counsel and oversee due diligence • Negotiate key investment documents (term sheets, shareholder & investment agreements) • Support financings and exit events (M&A, secondaries, IPOs) • Advise on fund formation, LP agreements, and investor matters across UK, US, and offshore structures • Oversee regulatory compliance (FCA, SEC, AIFMD, SFDR) and financial crime controls • Advise Board and leadership on governance, risk, and corporate compliance • Lead legal operations, including procurement, external counsel, and cost management • Maintain legal systems, processes, and overall department efficiency

Experience Required: • 10–15+ years’ senior legal experience in venture capital or private equity • Strong background in investment management (in-house or private practice with in-house exposure) • Proven expertise in private asset investments (VC, growth, PE), M&A, and shareholder arrangements • Experience leading cross-border transactions and managing multi-jurisdictional counsel • Familiarity with fund formation and limited partnership structures • Working knowledge of FCA and SEC regulatory frameworks • Understanding of AIFM/AIFMD, SFDR, and related regulations • Experience advising boards and senior management on governance matters

As a Certified B Corporation™, we take a different approach to how we do business. Recognised on an international scale as a company that operates for good, we value & incorporate the interests of all of our stakeholders to grow in the most sustainable manner. As a recognised Great Place to Work™, we ensure our workplace is one that fosters professional growth and collaboration.