Private Equity/Mergers & Acquisitions Associate Attorney at Direct Counsel

Position: Private Equity/M&A Associate (2nd–6th year)
Location: Chicago, IL

About the Role:
The incoming associate will join an elite Private Equity practice advising domestic and international private equity sponsors on complex business transactions, including leveraged buyouts, add-on acquisitions, dispositions of portfolio companies, co-investments, recapitalizations, and general corporate governance matters. You will be expected to take a front-line role in drafting key transaction documents, managing due diligence processes, negotiating NDAs and ancillary agreements, and coordinating the execution of sophisticated M&A transactions alongside partners and senior associates.

Key Responsibilities:

• Advise private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies throughout the investment lifecycle

• Lead drafting of purchase agreements, operating agreements, and other key transaction documents

• Manage cross-functional deal teams across tax, finance, labor & employment, and IP specialty areas

• Perform and oversee legal due diligence and prepare disclosure schedules

• Work directly with clients, investment bankers, and opposing counsel on live transactional matters

Qualifications:

• J.D. from a top-tier law school

• 2–6 years of experience in PE/M&A at an Am Law 100 or similarly sophisticated platform

• Substantive experience handling buyouts, acquisitions, dispositions, and/or minority investments

• Superior drafting, analytical, and negotiation skills

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume transactional practice

Compensation:

• Annual base salary range: $235,000 to $390,000, commensurate with experience

• Generous bonus potential aligned with market practice

Why This Opportunity:
This is an outstanding opportunity to work at the forefront of the private equity market, gaining hands-on experience on high-profile deals for blue-chip clients. The group boasts a nationally recognized platform, a collegial culture, direct access to partners, and meaningful client interaction from day one.