Overview
General Counsel Jobs in New York City Metropolitan Area at JW Michaels & Co.
Title: General Counsel
Company: JW Michaels & Co.
Location: New York City Metropolitan Area
About the Role
Our client is a leading investment management firm seeking an experienced General Counsel to lead the legal function for its private wealth division. This is a senior leadership opportunity for a seasoned attorney with deep expertise in registered investment company law, private markets, and regulatory compliance. The individual in this role will serve as a key strategic partner to senior leadership and work cross-functionally across asset classes.
Responsibilities
- Lead and manage a small legal team, overseeing day-to-day legal operations and providing strategic legal guidance across the private wealth platform
- Partner with transactional attorneys to negotiate and draft documentation for private markets investments, including secondary transactions, direct investments, and co-investments
- Prepare and present materials for Board of Trustees and committee meetings, including agendas, minutes, reports, and resolutions; serve as Secretary for such meetings
- Work with external counsel to prepare fund registration statements, prospectuses, shareholder reports, tender offers, and other regulatory filings under the Investment Company Act of 1940
- Oversee the drafting and review of key agreements including advisory, sub-advisory, distribution, transfer agency, and custodian agreements
- Collaborate with the Chief Compliance Officer to develop and implement fund policies, procedures, and compliance testing frameworks
- Review and analyze marketing materials, press releases, and white papers to ensure regulatory alignment
- Advise and educate internal investment professionals on 1940 Act compliance requirements and regulatory developments
Qualifications
- JD from an accredited law school; active bar admission in good standing
- 12+ years of experience as an attorney at a law firm and/or financial services firm
- Deep expertise in the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the Investment Advisers Act of 1940
- Prior experience in private markets investment management, either in-house or at a law firm
- Demonstrated ability to manage legal teams and seamlessly transition between executing and directing work
- Strong knowledge of registered investment company disclosure, fund structuring, and regulatory requirements
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage effectively across all levels of the organization
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with shifting priorities
