Associate - Digital Assets

This is an exciting opportunity to join our growing digital assets practice within our market‑leading Structured Finance & Derivatives team, based in either our Bristol or London office.

The practice advises on the transactional mandates involving digital assets, as well as the regulatory and structuring issues relating

to cryptoassets and tokenisation. It sits within our wider SFD group, one of the leading practices in the market, which advises a broad range of clients on the full spectrum of structured finance, structured products, derivatives and securitisation transactions.

As a core part of the firm’s Emerging Technologies Group, we advise on the structuring and regulatory issues posed by distributed ledger technology. The leading partner also co-heads the firm’s work on tokenisation – offering the successful candidate genuine exposure to some of the most innovative and fast-developing work in the market. 

Main duties & responsibilities 

The successful candidate will work predominantly alongside the partner leading the digital assets transactions practice, supported by the existing associates and trainees. You will also work with the wider group on structured finance and derivatives matters, as part of a ‘one team’ approach. 

The successful candidate will: 

• ​Advise on  transactional mandates relating to digital assets, building on a structured finance or derivatives foundation. 
• Advise on regulatory and structuring matters relating to digital assets and tokenisation, working closely with our specialist financial regulatory lawyers. 
• Draft, review and negotiate transaction and structured finance documentation for an international client base of cryptoassets firms, banks, asset managers, funds and corporates. 
• Work as part of cross-practice, cross-border teams, collaborating with colleagues across our Bristol, London and global offices. 
• Take real responsibility for matters, help supervise and develop junior members of the team, and build strong relationships with clients and colleagues alike. 
• Play an active role in marketing and business development to help grow this new practice. 

Person specification 

• Excellent academics. 
• 1/2+ PQE, gained at a leading City firm. 
• A solid structured finance or derivatives background is essential, either in a transactional or regulatory setting.
• Genuine interest in, crypto, digital assets, tokenisation and emerging technologies. 
• Strong technical, drafting and analytical skills, with a keen attention to detail. 
• A self-starter comfortable with the opportunity to help build and shape a growing practice. 
• Strong client focus, with a willingness to get actively involved in marketing and business development. 
• Commercially driven and 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, 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 are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment, offering equal employment opportunities to all applicants irrespective of sex, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, and more. Flexible working arrangements are supported, 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.